Ch 2 Essay Q's

If continents continue to move in the same direction over the next 200 million years, how might the appearance of landmasses change? Write a paragraph to explain the best possible positions of land masses in the future. Based on your understanding of the plate tectonic theory, is it possible that new supercontinents will form in the future?

If continents continue to move over the next several hundred million years, we can expect continental drift to continue. As continental drift continues, they might someday move to the point where they collide a form a new supercontinent. The plate tectonics theory suggests that will occur.

What is the theory of plate tectonics? Distinguish between continental drift, seafloor spreading, and plate tectonics. What evidence was used to support the theory of plate tectonics?

The theory of plate tectonics states that the earth's crust is rigid and the upper mantle is broken into slabs called plates. Continental drift is a hypothesis that suggests that earth's continents move over time. Seafloor spreading is a theory that states that new ocean crust forms along mid-ocean ridges. Evidence to support plate tectonics includes magnetic studies of the seafloor, satellite imaging, & seismic studies.

Use the image below to interpret how the theory of plate tectonics helps to explain the formation of huge mountains like the Himalayas.

When two plates of equal density collide, neither is subducted. Instead, both plates are folded and crumpled to produce towering Mt. ranges.