What supports the theory of plate tectonics?

There is evidence of plate-tonics. Clues to their past can be found in modern continents. Evidence from fossils, glaciers, and coastlines can show how the plates once fit together. Fossils tell us where plants and animals once lived.

How do earthquakes and volcanoes support the theory of plate tectonics?

As plates move, they get stuck in places, and enormous amounts of energy build up. When the plates finally get unstuck and move past each other, the energy is released in the form of earthquakes. Earthquakes and volcanoes are common features along tectonic plate boundaries, making these zones geologically very active.

What evidence supports plate tectonics quizlet?

Earthquakes and volcanic activity are also evidence of plate tectonics.

How did the theory of plate tectonics develop?

Plate tectonic theory had its beginnings in 1915 when Alfred Wegener proposed his theory of “continental drift.” Wegener proposed that the continents plowed through crust of ocean basins, which would explain why the outlines of many coastlines (like South America and Africa) look like they fit together like a puzzle.

Does the theory of plate tectonics explain where volcanoes are located and why they are located in those places?

The theory of plate tectonics explains most of the features of Earth’s surface. It explains why earthquakes, volcanoes and mountain ranges are where they are. It explains where to find some mineral resources. Plate tectonics is the key that unlocks many of the mysteries of our amazing planet.

How are volcanoes formed at convergent plate boundaries?

If two tectonic plates collide, they form a convergent plate boundary. Usually, one of the converging plates will move beneath the other, a process known as subduction. The new magma (molten rock) rises and may erupt violently to form volcanoes, often building arcs of islands along the convergent boundary.

Do convergent boundaries cause volcanoes?

If two tectonic plates collide, they form a convergent plate boundary. The new magma (molten rock) rises and may erupt violently to form volcanoes, often building arcs of islands along the convergent boundary.

Why was the theory of plate tectonics accepted?

Rapidly, evidence pointing to the process of seafloor spreading and effective plate motion was accumulated. Plate tectonics theory then became widely accepted among scientists because it relied on hard evidence and could explain most of the modern geological structures such as ocean basins, mountain ranges, and rifts.

How are volcanic activities related to plate tectonics Quora?

Volcanoes and subduction zones are often intimately related. As the downgoing plate at a subduction zone melts, the resulting magma rises to result in a line of volcanoes along the edge of the plate that is being subducted.