OCR Geography Plate Tectonics Revision Notes
Master OCR Geography Plate Tectonics using simple revision notes, key facts and practice questions — all generated by AI for your exam.
Plate tectonics is the theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into several large plates. These tectonic plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere and interact at their boundaries, leading to geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and mountain building.
Key Concepts
- 1The Earth's lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates.
- 2Plate boundaries can be divergent, convergent, or transform.
- 3Movement of plates is driven by convection currents in the mantle.
- 4Earthquakes and volcanoes often occur along plate boundaries.
- 5The theory of plate tectonics helps explain continental drift.
Simple Explanation
Plate tectonics is like a giant puzzle made up of pieces called tectonic plates. These plates are always moving, but very slowly, and they can bump into each other, pull apart, or slide past one another. When they do this, they can cause earthquakes and volcanoes. This movement also helps shape the Earth's surface over millions of years.
Memory Trick
“Remember 'D-C-T' for Divergent, Convergent, and Transform boundaries to recall the three main types of plate boundaries.”
Flashcards
What are the three types of plate boundaries?
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Exam Questions
Describe and explain the process of plate tectonics and its significance in shaping the Earth's surface. [6 marks]
6 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Include types of plate boundaries, movement mechanisms, and geological features formed.
Explain how earthquakes are related to plate tectonics. [4 marks]
4 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Discuss plate movement and stress accumulation along faults.
What is meant by 'continental drift'? [2 marks]
2 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Define continental drift and its relationship to plate tectonics.
Practice Quiz
What type of boundary occurs when two tectonic plates move apart?
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