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The Southern Continent Broken from Pangaea is Gondwanaland
Gondwanaland is the correct answer to the question. Let's break down the answer in detail:
1. Introduction:
The supercontinent Pangaea, which existed about 300 million years ago, is believed to have split into two major landmasses during the Mesozoic era. The northern landmass was called Laurasia, and the southern landmass was known as Gondwanaland.
2. Formation of Gondwanaland:
During the Triassic period, Pangaea began to break apart due to tectonic activity. Gondwanaland gradually separated from the northern portion of Pangaea, Laurasia, and started drifting towards the South Pole.
3. Composition of Gondwanaland:
Gondwanaland comprised several present-day continents, including South America, Africa, Antarctica, Australia, and the Indian subcontinent. These landmasses were once interconnected, forming a vast southern supercontinent.
4. Geological Evidence:
Geological evidence supports the existence and breakup of Gondwanaland. Fossil records and geological formations found across these continents provide clues about their ancient connection. For example, Mesosaurus, a freshwater reptile, was found in both South America and South Africa, suggesting a shared ancient environment.
5. Separation and Drift:
As Gondwanaland began to separate, it started drifting in different directions due to plate tectonics. Over millions of years, the landmasses moved apart, forming the continents we see today. The Indian subcontinent, for instance, drifted northward and collided with the Eurasian plate, giving rise to the formation of the Himalayas.
6. Modern-Day Continents:
The breakup of Gondwanaland resulted in the formation of the modern-day continents mentioned earlier. South America and Africa still show geological similarities, such as similar rock formations and the presence of ancient mountain belts that align when the continents are brought together.
Conclusion:
In summary, the southern continent that broke away from Pangaea is known as Gondwanaland. It consisted of South America, Africa, Antarctica, Australia, and the Indian subcontinent. The breakup of Gondwanaland played a significant role in shaping the modern-day continents we see today, and the geological evidence supports this ancient supercontinent's existence.