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Divergent Boundary Definition

A divergent boundary is where tectonic plates move apart. For example, underwater, it creates mid-ocean ridges.

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Tectonic Plates

LESSON MATERIALSmove

Fun Facts

  • Divergent boundaries are one of 3 main types of plate boundaries.
  • The Atlantic Ocean is expanding due to diverging plates.
  • Northeastern Africa is splitting due to diverging plates.

Why Do We Need To Know About Divergent Boundary

Learning about divergent boundaries helps us understand how Earth’s surface changes and why it’s important for predicting natural disasters. Divergent boundaries are where the Earth’s plates move apart from each other. This knowledge is used by scientists like those studying earthquakes and volcanoes to save lives and protect homes by predicting disasters.

Studying these boundaries also teaches us about how the Earth and other planets have changed over time and how new land is formed. This is key for scientists looking at Earth and exploring other planets like Mars, helping us learn more about space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Describe the layers of the Earth.
The Earth’s crust is the top layer. Next comes the mantle which is made of hot solid rock that can move very slowly over years. The inner-most layer is the core. The core is the hottest but is a solid due to being made mostly of iron and nickel under intense pressure from all the rock above it.
Describe the 3 main kinds of plate boundaries.
Convergent boundaries are where boundaries move towards each other. Divergent boundaries are when plates move apart. Transform boundaries are when plates slide past each other.
What is Pangea?
Pangea is a super continent predicted by the theory of continental drift. Scientists believe that about 240 million years ago all the continents were one large one called Pangea. The land of Pangea then broke apart due to tectonic plate movement and moved over millions of years. This idea is well supported by multiple lines of evidence.
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