22. Tectonic Plate Theory
Tectonic Plate Theory outlines the structure of the Earth and the movement of tectonic plates in relation to geological phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanic activity. This theory emphasizes the importance of understanding plate boundaries, plate movement mechanisms, and the implications for infrastructure design and earthquake engineering. Additionally, modern tools and historical data play a critical role in studying these plate interactions.
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Sections
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What we have learnt
- The Earth's structure consists of the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core.
- Tectonic plates include oceanic and continental types and are the source of geological activity at their boundaries.
- Seismic activity and earthquakes are closely linked to plate movement and boundaries, and understanding these can inform engineering practices.
Key Concepts
- -- Lithosphere
- The rigid outer layer of the Earth, composed of the crust and the uppermost mantle, divided into tectonic plates.
- -- Plate Boundaries
- The edges where two tectonic plates meet, categorized into divergent, convergent, and transform boundaries, each with distinct geological implications.
- -- Paleomagnetism
- The study of the record of Earth's magnetic field preserved in rocks, which provides evidence for plate tectonic theories.
- -- Seismic Gaps
- Sections of active faults that have not experienced recent earthquakes, indicating potential sites for future seismic activity.
Additional Learning Materials
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