Theory of Plate Tectonics


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Theory of Plate Tectonics

Theory of plate tectonics: Many Earth scientists have tried to describe the formation of physical features with help of various theories. One such theory is the “Theory of Plate Tectonics”. Plate Tectonics is a scientific theory that describes the large-scale motion of Earth  lithosphere. According to this theory, the Earth’s crust (upper part) is made up of Seven major and some minor lithosphere plates. Stresses within the plates and continental rocks above resulted in the movement of the plates. This movement of the plates leads to folding, faulting and volcanic activity.

The movement of the plates is classified into three type

  • ·   When two plates move towards each other, they form a convergent bound
  • ·   When two plates move away from each other, they form a divergent boundary.
  • ·   When two plates move horizontally past each other, they form a transform boundary.
  • ‘When two plates collide, they may break into small pieces, slide one under the other or move horizontally. This movement of plates causes earthquakes at the places where the plates meet.
  • Rock formation This is the result of weathering and erosion of existing rocks.

    Lithospheric plates Pieces of rigid landmass floatin over liquid magma.

    Folding  Warping of rocks due to compressional forces.

    Faulting  Development of cracks and factures on the Earth surface due to stress.

    moveents of these plates have changed the position and size of the continents over millions of years. They have led to the evalution of the present landform features of India. Most volcanoes and earthquakes in the world are located at plate  margin , but some do occur within the plates.

    Sample Questions
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    Question : 1

    Plate tectonics is the theory that Earth's outer shell is divided into __________ plates .

    Right Option : C
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    Question : 2

    Which of the following disasters occur because of tectonic plates?

    Right Option : D
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    Question : 3

    Movement of the plates over earth's surface is termed __________.

    Right Option : D
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