Need to Know # 4 ~ The Lithosphere in Motion: Plate Tectonics
Answer the following questions using Chapter 6 of Planet Earth.
Answer the following multiple choice questions.
1. The lithosphere is comprised of…
a) approximately 7 plates
b) approximately 15 plates
c) approximately 20 plates
d) approximately 100 plates
2. A plate …
a) is a rigid slab of solid rock that has clearly defined edges
b) is approximately 100 kilometres thick
c) moves independently of other plates
d) all of the above
3. Plate tectonics is…
a) an outdated theory that attempts to explain the movement of the earth’s
lithosphere
b) concerned with the study of the movement of plates and the effects they have
on the surface features of the lithosphere
c) not important to geologist searching for new mineral locations
d) something we can feel everyday
Complete the following diagram:
4. Draw and label a sketch diagram of each of the types of plate boundaries.
(subduction, collision, diverging and transform fault)
Complete the following short answer questions:
5. Explain why the plastic nature of the asthenosphere and the presence of convection
currents are key elements in the theory of plate tectonics.
6. Not all volcanic activity occurs along plate boundaries. Explain why.
7. Identify and explain each of the three (3) major tectonic processes.
8. Which type of plate boundary is:
a) found at mid-ocean ridges
b) most often associated with newly forming mountain belts on the continents
c) associated with the San Andreas fault of California
d) related to deep ocean trenches
9. Is it better to live near a fault line where small earthquakes occur frequently or where
the fault appears to be inactive and less threatening? Explain your answer.
10. Why would a map of major tectonic events be useful to:
a) someone deciding where to move in the world?
b) an insurance company?
c) an engineering company responsible for the locating of nuclear power
plants?
Be sure to explain your answers.