The Theory of Plate Tectonics

A collection of vocabulary terms related to the Theory of Plate Tectonics.

A plate boundary where two plates move TOWARD each other.

convergent boundary

A plate boundary where two plates move AWAY from each other.

divergent boundary

A break in Earth’s crust where masses of rock slip past each other.

fault

A section of the lithosphere that slowly moves over the asthenosphere, carrying pieces of the continental and oceanic crust.

plate

The theory that pieces of Earth’s lithosphere are in constant motion, driven by convection currents in the mantle.

plate tectonics

A deep valley that forms where two plates move apart.

rift valley

A well-tested concept that explains a wide range of observations.

scientific theory

A plate boundary where two plates move past each other in opposite directions.

transform boundary