Earth Processes

Flashcards covering key concepts about Earth Processes, including tectonic processes, plate tectonics, weathering, erosion, tides, and ocean currents.

What are the three layers of the Earth?

Crust, Mantle, Core

What type of rock primarily composes the continental crust?

Granite and similar rocks

What is the theory of plate tectonics?

The lithosphere is divided into plates that float and move independently on the viscous asthenosphere.

What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

Geological matching of rock formations, distribution of fossils, paleomagnetic stripes, and the jigsaw fit of continents.

What are the three types of plate boundaries?

Convergent, Divergent, Transform.

What occurs at a convergent boundary?

Tectonic plates move toward each other, forming subduction zones, leading to features like trenches and volcanoes.

Describe a divergent boundary.

Tectonic plates move away from each other, creating new seafloor at mid-ocean ridges.

What is the origin of hydrothermal vents?

They form where cold ocean water seeps into the crust, gets heated by magma, and is expelled as superheated water.

How does erosion differ from weathering?

Erosion is the transport of broken-down materials to new locations, while weathering is the breaking down of substances without transport.

What are the four main types of erosion?

Erosion by ice, water, wind, and gravity.

What are the main components of tides?

Tides are caused by gravitational interactions of the Sun, Moon, and Earth.

What is the difference between spring and neap tides?

Spring tides have the greatest range when the Sun and Moon align, while neap tides have the smallest range when they are perpendicular.

Describe the process of upwelling.

Movement of cold, nutrient-rich water from the deep ocean to the surface due to wind moving warm surface water away.

What is the global ocean conveyor belt?

A thermohaline circulation pattern that moves seawater around the Earth, balancing climate by transporting warm and cold water.

What impact does El Niño have on South America?

It reduces upwelling, decreases primary productivity, disrupts fishing industries, and increases rainfall.

How does La Niña differ from El Niño?

La Niña is the cooling phase with stronger winds that promote cold water upwelling, leading to decreased sea temperatures.