Plate Tectonics Study Guide

Know the layers and in what order they are

For each layer of Earth, describe the temperature, density, thickness, amount of pressure, elements included, and state of matter (solid, liquid, gas).

Explain why each layer is in its state of matter, especially the inner core.

Describe the difference between continental and oceanic crust based on density and thickness. Which rock is most common is each type of crust?

How does older oceanic crust to newer oceanic crust in terms of temperature and density?

Who is Alfred Wegener and what was his hypothesis?

Why did many geologists reject Wegeners hypothesis?

List evidence that supports Wegeners theory (this was not known at the time of his hypothesis)

List and explain the three types of heat transfer and give two examples for each.

Why do Earths plates move?

What happens if the heat source for convection suddenly no longer exists? What would happen to Earths plates if the mantle completely cooled?

What happens to temperature and density of matter in convection currents?

Describe the landforms or geologic events that occur at each type of plate boundary. Note that depending on the type of crust, a convergent boundary may produce two different landforms. What are they?

Illustrate the direction of convection currents at each type of plate boundary. Think about the motion of the bicycle wheel and how it has to turn to move in a certain direction

What is the process that creates new crust? What is the process that destroys old crust?

What is sea-floor spreading, why is it happening, and where is it happening?

Where is the newest crust found? Where is the oldest crust found?

List evidence (3 things) for sea-floor spreading