Geology Week 2 DQ 1 - Essay Example

Geology Affiliation: What are the three types of plate boundaries? How do they form?Convergent plate boundary – This boundary is formed as a result of the movement of two tectonic plates towards each other. The plates may be of similar or different densities. Tectonic plates of equal densities converge, resulting in uplifts and events that form mountains. On the other hand, in tectonic plates of unequal density, the denser plate sinks under the lighter one and settles at the mantle (Rhodes & Perlman, 2001).

Divergent plate boundary – This boundary is formed by two tectonic plates that move away from each other. In other words, they move in relatively opposite directions (Rhodes & Perlman, 2001). This process enables creation of crustal material, thereby constituting this type of boundary.Transform plate boundary – Two tectonic plates move parallel to each other. They collide against each other during this movement. Earth disturbances occur for example earthquakes, leading to the formation of this boundary.

What is the difference between the western and Eastern United States continental margins in terms of the plate tectonics theory?Western and Eastern United States are a representation of active and passive continental margins (Rhodes & Perlman, 2001). In the light of plate tectonic theory, the Western continental margin is characterized by the occurrence of oceanic plates that result from the crashing activity of the continental edge. On the other hand, the Eastern United States continental margin is passive, meaning that it is not characterized by geological activities.

Collision or subduction processes do not occur, and tectonic activity is therefore minimal (Rhodes & Perlman, 2001). As a result, extensive continental shelves emerge from erosion and weathering processes.How did the discovery of magnetic anomalies and polar reversals process contribute to our current acceptance of plate tectonics theory?The acceptance of plate tectonic theory based on magnetic anomalies and polar reversals followed studies and discoveries that evidenced the applicability of the theory.

Historical and present continental distribution is attributed to the earth’s magnetic field (Rhodes & Perlman, 2001). Rock formation processes and plate tectonic movements have been consistently studied and proved, shaping the present geological structure in the light of the plate tectonic theory.ReferenceRhodes, F. & Perlman, R. (2001). Geology. California: St. Martins Press.