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Plate Tectonics Video Lecture | Geography for UPSC CSE

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FAQs on Plate Tectonics Video Lecture - Geography for UPSC CSE

1. What is plate tectonics?
Ans. Plate tectonics is a scientific theory that explains how the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into several large and small plates, moves and interacts with each other. These plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them and are driven by the movement of molten rock in the Earth's mantle.
2. How are earthquakes related to plate tectonics?
Ans. Earthquakes are closely related to plate tectonics. The majority of earthquakes occur at plate boundaries, where the plates interact. There are three main types of plate boundaries: divergent boundaries where plates move apart, convergent boundaries where plates collide, and transform boundaries where plates slide past each other. The movement and interaction of plates at these boundaries cause stress and build-up of energy, which is released as an earthquake when the stress becomes too great.
3. What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?
Ans. The theory of plate tectonics is supported by various lines of evidence. One major piece of evidence is the fit of the continents, which suggests that they were once joined together in a supercontinent called Pangaea. Other evidence includes the matching rock formations and fossils found on different continents, the distribution of earthquakes and volcanoes along plate boundaries, and the measurement of plate movement using GPS and other geodetic techniques.
4. How do plate tectonics affect the Earth's surface?
Ans. Plate tectonics have a significant impact on the Earth's surface. The movement and interaction of plates create various geological features such as mountains, volcanoes, and oceanic trenches. For example, when two plates collide, they can form mountain ranges like the Himalayas. When plates separate, magma rises to fill the gap and creates new crust, leading to the formation of mid-ocean ridges. Plate tectonics also influence the distribution of land and ocean, the shape of coastlines, and the occurrence of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
5. Can plate tectonics explain the occurrence of natural disasters?
Ans. Yes, plate tectonics can explain the occurrence of natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. As mentioned earlier, the movement and interaction of plates at plate boundaries generate stress and build-up of energy, which is eventually released as earthquakes. Similarly, volcanic eruptions occur when molten rock (magma) from the Earth's mantle reaches the surface through cracks and weak spots in the crust, often associated with plate boundaries. Understanding plate tectonics is crucial for assessing and predicting the risks associated with these natural disasters.
180 videos|475 docs|198 tests
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