The Plate Tectonic Theory revolutionized our understanding of Earth’s dynamic surface. It proposes that Earth’s lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates that constantly move, shaping our planet’s landscapes. These plates interact at boundaries, leading to seismic activity, volcanic eruptions, and mountain formation. The theory also explains continental drift and how oceans open and close over geological time. Understanding plate tectonics helps us predict earthquakes and tsunamis, aiding disaster preparedness. By unlocking the mysteries of this theory, scientists gain invaluable insights into Earth’s evolution and the forces that have shaped our world throughout history.
1. What is the main concept behind plate tectonic theory?
(A) Movement of ocean currents
(B) Shifting of continents
(C) Formation of mountain ranges
(D) Climate change
2. How many major tectonic plates are there on Earth’s surface?
(A) 4
(B) 7
(C) 12
(D) 20
3. What type of boundary occurs when two tectonic plates move away from each other?
(A) Convergent boundary
(B) Divergent boundary
(C) Transform boundary
(D) Subduction boundary
4. Which type of boundary results in the collision and uplifting of crustal material?
(A) Convergent boundary
(B) Divergent boundary
(C) Transform boundary
(D) Subduction boundary
5. What phenomenon is responsible for causing earthquakes along tectonic plate boundaries?
(A) Volcanic eruptions
(B) Plate subduction
(C) Continental drift
(D) Plate divergence
6. Which tectonic boundary is associated with the formation of deep ocean trenches?
(A) Divergent boundary
(B) Convergent boundary
(C) Transform boundary
(D) Subduction boundary
7. Which scientist is credited with proposing the theory of continental drift, a precursor to Plate Tectonic Theory?
(A) Isaac Newton
(B) Albert Einstein
(C) Charles Darwin
(D) Alfred Wegener
8. Which natural feature is formed at a divergent boundary on land?
(A) Mountain ranges
(B) Rift valleys
(C) Ocean trenches
(D) Volcanoes
9. What do we call the process by which tectonic plates grind past each other horizontally?
(A) Divergence
(B) Convergence
(C) Subduction
(D) Transform faulting
10. Which tectonic boundary is responsible for the formation of volcanic island arcs?
(A) Divergent boundary
(B) Convergent boundary
(C) Transform boundary
(D) Subduction boundary
11. What type of tectonic boundary is responsible for the formation of mid-ocean ridges?
(A) Divergent boundary
(B) Convergent boundary
(C) Transform boundary
(D) Subduction boundary
12. The movement of tectonic plates is primarily driven by:
(A) Wind patterns
(B) Ocean currents
(C) Gravitational forces
(D) Mantle convection
13. The Himalayan Mountain range was formed as a result of the collision between which two tectonic plates?
(A) Indian Plate and Eurasian Plate
(B) Pacific Plate and North American Plate
(C) South American Plate and African Plate
(D) Nazca Plate and South American Plate
14. Which phenomenon occurs when one tectonic plate is forced beneath another, creating deep ocean trenches?
(A) Seafloor spreading
(B) Rift valley formation
(C) Subduction
(D) Continental drift
15. The “Ring of Fire” is a zone characterized by intense tectonic activity, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Which tectonic boundary does it primarily encircle?
(A) Divergent boundaries
(B) Convergent boundaries
(C) Transform boundaries
(D) Subduction boundaries
