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Explain how the study of plate tectonics has helped us to understand the global distribution of Fold Mountains. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2010
Question B
Explain how the study of plate tectonics has helped us to understand the global distribution of Fold Mountains.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain how the study of plate tectonics has helped us to understand the global distribution of Fold Mountains. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2010
Step 1
Reference to global distribution
Answer
The study of plate tectonics has been crucial in understanding the global distribution of Fold Mountains, as it reveals the dynamic processes at play at the Earth's surface. Fold Mountains are primarily found at convergent plate boundaries, where tectonic plates collide, forcing the Earth's crust to fold and accumulate. This distribution is evident in regions such as the Himalayas, formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, and the Andes, resulting from the Nazca and South American plates converging. By mapping these plate boundaries, we can understand not just where Fold Mountains are located but also their formation processes.
Step 2
Named Fold Mountains
Answer
Two prime examples of Fold Mountains that illustrate this distribution are:
- The Himalayas: Formed from the collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate, resulting in the highest mountain range in the world.
- The Andes: Located along the western edge of South America, these mountains have been formed through the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate.
Step 3
Plate tectonics examined
Answer
Examining plate tectonics involves understanding various facets, such as:
- Types of plate boundaries: There are three main types - convergent, divergent, and transform, with Fold Mountains predominantly associated with convergent ones.</br>
- Forces at play: Understanding the compressive forces during plate collisions helps explain the folding processes that create these mountains.</br>
- Geological evidence: Analysis of rock formations and fault lines supports the theory of tectonic movements leading to mountain formation. Different types of rock, such as sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous, provide insights into past geological events, affirming the correlation between plate tectonics and the existence of Fold Mountains.
- Seismic activity: The study of earthquakes and volcanic activity, which are closely tied to plate movements, also helps in understanding where Fold Mountains may emerge.
- Historical plate movements: By examining paleomagnetic data, geologists can track how tectonic plates have shifted over millions of years, resulting in the current distribution of Fold Mountains around the globe.