Plate Tectonics

Explore the fascinating world of plate tectonics in this 59-minute lecture. Delve into the Earth's interior structure and examine ancient Earth maps to understand the planet's geological evolution. Learn about continental drift, the formation of Pangaea, and the supporting evidence that led to the development of plate tectonic theory. Discover the different types of plate boundaries, including divergent, convergent, and transform fault boundaries, and their geological implications. Investigate the processes of seafloor spreading, magnetic reversals, and hot spot formation. Analyze methods for measuring plate motion and explore the driving forces behind tectonic movements. Gain insights into whole-mantle convection and the layer cake model of Earth's structure. This comprehensive overview of plate tectonics provides a solid foundation for understanding the dynamic nature of our planet's geology.

Continental Drift: An Idea Before Its Time
Pangaea 200 Million Years Ago
Similar Fossils on Different Continents
Continental Drift: Supporting Evidence
The Great Debate
The Theory of Plate Tectonics
Earth's Lithospheric Plates
Three Types of Plate Boundaries
Divergent Plate Boundary
Mid-ocean ridge system
Iceland: Mid-ocean ridge
Divergent Plate Boundaries
Continental Rifting
Convergent Plate Boundaries & Subduction
Oceanic-Continental Convergence
Continent-Continent Convergence
Plate Boundaries • Transform fault boundaries - Plates slide past one another
Changing Plate Boundaries
Deep-Sea Drilling
Hot Spots and Hot Spot Tracks
Testing the Plate Tectonics Model
Polar wandering paths for Eurasia and North America
Magnetic Reversals and Seafloor Spreading
Ocean Floor as a Magnetic Recorder
Heat Flow on the Sea Floor
How Is Plate Motion Measured?
What Drives Plate Motions?
Forces Driving Plate Motions
Forces Acting on Plates
Whole-Mantle Convection
Layer Cake Model