Download 40-Geology-Continental Drift

40­Geology­Continental Drift
Aim #40: The Theory of Continental Drift
*Review:
Which two processes could result in the formation of high mountains with well­rounded peaks?
(1) volcanic eruptions and global warming
(2) earthquakes and tidal activity
(3) collision of crustal plates and erosion
(4) production of greenhouse gases and weathering
Explain your answer above.
Earth’s hydrosphere is best described as the
(1) relatively thin layer of rock found above
Earth’s mantle
(2) relatively thin layer of water covering most of
Earth’s crust
(3) hot liquid rock located in Earth’s outer core
(4) very dense rock located in Earth’s inner core
40­Geology­Continental Drift
1.
Describe how convection currents occur in the mantle.
2.
How does the temperature of Earth’s interior compare to the temperature of Earth’s crust?
3.
Name two geologic features or events that might result from the movement of crustal plates.
1.
___________________________________________________________________________________
2.
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4.
How does the thickness of Earth’s oceanic crust compare to the thickness of the continental crust?
5.
Describe how the convection currents in the mantle can cause plate movements.
• Give two examples of observations that led Alfred Wegener to his theory.
• Why didn't scientists at the time accept Wegener's theory?
• Give an explanation for why the present day continents do not fit together perfectly.
40­Geology­Continental Drift
http://geology­guy.com/teaching/iac/animations/pangaea.htm
40­Geology­Continental Drift
The Theory of Continental Drift
All continents were once joined together in a single landmass (pangaea) and have since drifted apart
Evidence:
1. The Shapes Fit!
Continents fit like a puzzle
2. The Plants and Animals Fit!
Species on different continents are similar
3. The Rocks Match!
Same type of Rock belts in Africa and S. America
4. The Ice Matches!
Glacial striations show evidence of no Atlantic Ocean
5. The Positions don't match...
Tropical plant fossils found in Antarctica
40­Geology­Continental Drift