Theory of Plate Tectonics

Chapter 7-3

Plate Tectonics –

The crust (rocky and rigid) is divided into “plates” that move over the mantle (that is plastic like).

Plate Tectonics –

Plate Boundaries – Boundary

Fault Plate Direction

Creates (o=ocean & c=continental)

Plate Boundaries – Boundary

Fault Plate Direction

Creates (o=ocean & c=continental)

Divergent Normal Pull or Moving Apart

Seafloor Spreading (O vs. O)Or Valley (C vs. C)

Divergent Plate Boundaries

Plate Boundaries – Boundary

Fault Plate Direction

Creates (o=ocean & c=continental)

Divergent Normal Pull or Moving Apart

Seafloor Spreading (O vs. O)Or Valley (C vs. C)

Boundary

Fault Plate Direction

Creates (o=ocean & c=continental)

Divergent Normal Pull or Moving Apart

Seafloor Spreading (O vs. O)Or Valley (C vs. C)

Convergent Reverse Move Together Subduction Zone/ Trench / Volcanoe (C vs. O)Mountain (C vs. C)

Plate Boundary -

Convergent Plate Boundaries

Oceanic-Continental Convergence

Boundary

Fault Plate Direction

Creates (o=ocean & c=continental)

Divergent Normal Pull or Moving Apart

Seafloor Spreading (O vs. O)Or Valley (C vs. C)

Convergent Reverse Move Together Subduction Zone/ Trench / Volcanoe (C vs. O)Mountain (C vs. C)

Plate Boundary -

Boundary

Fault Plate Direction

Creates (o=ocean & c=continental)

Divergent Normal Pull or Moving Apart

Seafloor Spreading (O vs. O)Or Valley (C vs. C)

Convergent Reverse Move Together Subduction Zone/ Trench / Volcanoe (C vs. O)Mountain (C vs. C)

Transform Strike-Slip Slide Alongside One Another

Earthquake and Faultline

Plate Boundary -

Transform Fault Boundary

Causes of Plate Tectonics-

Scientist believe convection currents move the plates by the hot material in the mantle rising and as it cools it carries the plates along with it until it sinks and starts the process all over again.

Causes of Plate Tectonics-

Features Caused by Plate Tectonics-

Features Caused by Plate Tectonics-

Testing for Plate Tectonics –

Previously scientists knew plates were moving, but new methods use lasers and satellites to measure precise movements.

Testing for Plate Tectonics –