Earth Science Key Questions
Plate Tectonics (Chapter 17-18)
1) Label the inner and outer core, mantle (asthenosphere and lithosphere) and crust
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
What were four pieces of evidence for Wegener’s Theory of Continental Drift?
Wegener’s Theory is not currently used to explain a dynamic earth. Why not?
What is the mid-Atlantic Ridge?
What is the relationship between an ocean ridge and an ocean trench?
Describe how each of the following can be used to argue that the sea floor is spreading:
a) magnetic reversals
b) age of rocks c) mid-ocean ridges
d) deep ocean trenches
7) Where in the ocean would you expect to find the oldest rock?
8) Complete the table:
Type of Plate Boundary
Divergent on land
Divergent under ocean
Oceanic-oceanic
convergent
Diagram
Specific Example on Earth
Oceanic – Continental
convergent
Continental-Continental
convergent
Transform
9) The Marianas Islands are a volcanic island arc found next to the Marianas Trench, the deepest
part of the ocean. How is their formation different from the formation of the Hawaiian Islands?
(look in your Data Book)
10) Define mantle convection, ridge push, and slab pull.
11) What is the difference between the focus and the epicentre of an earthquake?
12) There are two main types of seismic waves: body waves and surface waves. Which is the most
destructive?
13) There are two main types of body waves: primary and secondary. How do they differ?
14) Which tectonic plates are responsible for the formation of our local volcanoes such as Mt.
Garibaldi, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Baker?