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Plate Tectonics

Topic

  • Earth Science
  • Geology

Resource Type

  • Videos
  • Animations

Level

High School — General

Duration

00:01:16
Saved By
15 Users
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Description

This animation provides an overview of some basic concepts from plate tectonics, a fundamental theory in earth science.

As shown in the animation, heat inside Earth sets up a convection current that drives the motion of tectonic plates. This can lead to the separation of plates and subduction of the mantle, ultimately causing earthquakes, volcanoes, and many other features of our planet.

This animation is a clip from a 2012 Holiday Lecture Series, Changing Planet: Past, Present, Future. Depending on students’ background, it may be helpful to pause the animation at various points to discuss different features.

Key Terms

continental drift, convection current, earthquake, mantle, mountain, subduction, volcano

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Accessibility Level (WCAG compliance)

Video files meet criteria.

Version History

Date Published 09.17.12

Materials

Large (MOV) 9.6 MB
Large (WMV) 10 MB
Small (MOV) 5.1 MB
Small (WMV) 5.3 MB
Transcript (PDF) 12 KB

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