Unit 11 Dynamic Earth (tectonics, interior, EQ)

NYS Earth Science Standards (nysed.gov)

INDICATOR 2.1 : Use the concepts of density and heat energy to explain observations of weather patterns, seasonal changes, and the movements of Earth’s plates.

• Major Understandings:

  • • 2.1a Earth systems have internal and external sources of energy, both of which create heat.

    • 2.1b The transfer of heat energy within the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, and Earth’s interior results in the formation of regions of different densities. These density differences result in motion.

    • 2.1j Properties of Earth’s internal structure (crust, mantle, inner core, and outer core) can be inferred from the analysis of the behavior of seismic waves (including velocity and refraction).

      • • Analysis of seismic waves allows the determination of the location of earthquake epicenters, and the measurement of earthquake magnitude; this analysis leads to the inference that Earth’s interior is composed of layers that differ in composition and states of matter.

    • 2.1k The outward transfer of Earth’s internal heat drives convective circulation in the mantle that moves the lithospheric plates comprising Earth’s surface.

    • 2.1l The lithosphere consists of separate plates that ride on the more fluid asthenosphere and move slowly in relationship to one another, creating convergent, divergent, and transform plate boundaries. These motions indicate Earth is a dynamic geologic system.

      • • These plate boundaries are the sites of most earthquakes, volcanoes, and young mountain ranges.

        • Compared to continental crust, ocean crust is thinner and denser. New ocean crust continues to form at mid-ocean ridges.

        • Earthquakes and volcanoes present geologic hazards to humans. Loss of property, personal injury, and loss of life can be reduced by effective emergency preparedness.

• • • • 2.1m Many processes of the rock cycle are consequences of plate dynamics. These include the production of magma (and subsequent igneous rock formation and contact metamorphism) at both subduction and rifting regions, regional metamorphism within subduction zones, and the creation of major depositional basins through down-warping of the crust.

      • 2.1n Many of Earth’s surface features such as mid-ocean ridges/rifts, trenches/subduction zones/island arcs, mountain ranges (folded, faulted, and volcanic), hot spots, and the magnetic and age patterns in surface bedrock are a consequence of forces associated with plate motion and interaction.

      • 2.1o Plate motions have resulted in global changes in geography, climate, and the patterns of organic evolution.

      • 2.1p Landforms are the result of the interaction of tectonic forces and the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition.