PLATE TECTONICS WEBQUEST Introduction We have recently studied

PLATE TECTONICS WEBQUEST

Introduction We have recently studied the structure of the inside of the Earth. We will now be journeying to discover the processes that shape the surface of the Earth, or the crust.

Task Many of the landforms we see today were formed from processes that happen way below the crust. Today you will begin on a journey that will help you better understand why these processes take place. Also, you will leave with a better understanding of how the Earth’s surface is continuously changing.

Process � You will answer a series of questions regarding Continental Drift, Sea Floor Spreading, Plate Tectonics, and Boundary Types � You will then meet back with a group the next day to compare your answers. � We will be using this information for activities over the following days.

Research Questions For questions 1 -4: www. sci. csuhayward. edu/~lstrayer/geol 2101/2101_Ch 19_03. pdf 1. What is continental drift? 2. Who discovered this theory? 3. List 4 pieces of evidence this scientist used to prove his theory. (Provide examples of each) 4. Why was this theory not widely accepted?

For 5 -6: http: //library. thinkquest. org/17457/platetectonics/4. php 5. Explain the process of Sea Floor Spreading. 6. Infer where the ocean floor is the newest. For 7 -22: www. cotf. edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/plates 1. html 7. What is Plate Tectonics? 8. How many major plates are there and what are there names? 9. How fast do these plates move? 10. What happens within the mantle that drives the movement of these plats? 11. Draw a diagram of a convergent boundary. 12. Explain what happens at a convergent boundary.

13. Explain why it might be dangerous to live near a convergent boundary. 14. Give an example of where you could find a convergent boundary on Earth’s surface. 15. Draw a diagram of a divergent boundary. 16. Explain what happens at a divergent boundary. 17. Explain why it might be dangerous to live near a divergent boundary. 18. Give an example of where you could find a divergent boundary on Earth’s surface.

19. Draw a diagram of a transform boundary. 20. Explain what happens at a transform boundary. 21. Explain why it might be dangerous to live near a transform boundary. 22. Give an example of where you could find a transform boundary on Earth’s crust.

BONUS � Research the Ring of Fire (not the Johnny Cash song). � Write a brief paragraph that explains what it is, where it can be found, and why it can be found where it is.