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The theory of plate tectonics explains that earth’s lithosphere moves due to the unbalanced forces occurring within the mantle. Alfred Wegner was one of the first scientists to collect scientific evidence in an effort to prove that earth’s tectonic plates drifted. Which of the following pieces of evidence was not found during Wegner’s lifetime?

A Geographic features on various coastlines that appear to match. B Matching reptilian fossils on various continents separated by ocean. C Glaciers in the warmer areas showing evidence of their formation in colder regions. D Rock with matching magnetic field signatures on either side of the Mid Atlantic Ridge.

Which is the best evidence that continents that are now separated were once joined? A Continents that were once joined now have similar climates. B Identical plant and animal fossils are found on continents that are now separated. C The cultures of the people on separated continents have similar languages. D The migratory patterns of wildlife on separated continents are similar.

Which statement is the best evidence for the conclusion that faults and volcanoes are results of the movement of tectonic plates? A Volcanoes are most often located in the middle of tectonic plates B New volcanoes are located near inactive plate boundaries C Faults and volcanoes existed before there were any tectonic plates D Faults and volcanoes are often found at tectonic plate boundaries

The Pangea theory of a single, massive land mass that may have broken apart into what we associate with the modern land masses and major continents was first supported by what significant evidence? A Similar climate and weather patterns on continents very remote from each other. B Fossil evidence of identical species on continental coastal regions of continents separated by oceans.C Extensive volcanoes present in the pacific “Rim of Fire,” on both side of the Pacific ocean. D Basalt mineral formations found on the west coast of Africa and the east coast of South America.

The modern model of plate tectonic theory suggests that the continents and the major tectonic plates drift slowly on —

A the ocean B the Earth’s core C the upper layer of the Earth’s mantle D the atmosphere

Which student correctly identified the geologic process that formed the Himalayan mountains? A Student 1 B Student 2 C Student 3 D Student 4

A fossil layers B islands C deep-sea trenchD rift valley

The folding and faulting of rocks is caused by A the movement of tectonic plates B ancient weathering and erosion C sediments deposited by rivers D magnetic reversals of the North and South Poles

When the sea floor spreads apart, volcanoes such as those along the Ring of Fire and ridges such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge are formed because — A sediments are deposited where the floor spreads, causing volcanoes B as the plates pull apart, magma moves to the surface, building ridges C ocean water erodes the weak spots on tectonic plates, building ridges D cold ocean water causes fissures that weaken the rocks, causing ridges