📚 Topic Summary
Divergent plate boundaries are regions where tectonic plates are moving away from each other. This separation allows magma from the Earth's mantle to rise to the surface, creating new crustal material. These boundaries are responsible for the formation of mid-ocean ridges and rift valleys. The process contributes significantly to seafloor spreading and the continuous reshaping of Earth's surface. Understanding this process helps us comprehend volcanic activity and earthquake occurrences in these regions.
🌋 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their correct definitions:
- Term: Magma
- Term: Mid-Ocean Ridge
- Term: Rift Valley
- Term: Seafloor Spreading
- Term: Tectonic Plates
- Definition: A valley formed on land where the crust is pulling apart.
- Definition: The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges.
- Definition: The Earth's crust and upper mantle, broken into large pieces.
- Definition: Molten rock beneath the Earth's surface.
- Definition: An underwater mountain range, formed by plate tectonics.
🧭 Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Use the words below to fill in the blanks in the following paragraph.
(Words: Divergent, Magma, Plates, Ridge, Volcanoes)
At __________ plate boundaries, tectonic __________ move apart. This allows __________ to rise from the mantle, often creating a mid-ocean __________. In some cases, it can also lead to the formation of __________. This process is a key part of how our planet changes.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
If divergent plate boundaries are creating new crust, what do you think is happening to old crust somewhere else on Earth? Explain your reasoning.