Tectonic Forces
Tectonic forces are the natural processes that cause the movement and deformation of the Earth's crust. These forces create and shape the Earth's major features, such as mountains, valleys, and earthquake-prone areas.
Types of Tectonic Forces
There are three main types of tectonic forces:
- Compression: This occurs when tectonic plates are pushed together, causing the crust to fold and buckle. This often creates mountain ranges.
- Tension: Tensional forces pull tectonic plates apart, leading to the formation of rift valleys and the breakup of continents.
- Shearing: Shearing forces cause rocks to slide past each other horizontally, leading to the formation of faults and earthquakes.
Effects of Tectonic Forces
Tectonic forces have a significant impact on the Earth's surface and its inhabitants. They can lead to the formation of new landforms, the destruction of existing ones, and the release of seismic energy in the form of earthquakes.
Study Guide
Key Concepts
- Definition of tectonic forces
- Types of tectonic forces: compression, tension, shearing
- Effects of tectonic forces on the Earth's surface
- Relationship between tectonic forces and earthquakes
Key Terminology
- Tectonic Forces
- The natural processes that cause movement and deformation of the Earth's crust
- Compression
- Forces that push tectonic plates together, leading to folding and mountain formation
- Tension
- Forces that pull tectonic plates apart, resulting in rift valleys and continental breakup
- Shearing
- Horizontal forces that cause rocks to slide past each other, leading to faults and earthquakes
Discussion Questions
- How do tectonic forces contribute to the formation of mountain ranges?
- What are the potential dangers associated with shearing tectonic forces?
- Why are some areas more prone to earthquakes than others?
◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Sixth Grade. Plate Tectonics
Worksheet/Answer key
Plate Tectonics 
Worksheet/Answer key
Plate Tectonics Worksheet/Answer key
Plate Tectonics Vocabulary/Answer key
Plate Tectonics Vocabulary/Answer key
Plate Tectonics Vocabulary/Answer key
Plate Tectonics Vocabulary/Answer key
Plate Tectonics
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE
Earth’s Systems
Use evidence to explain how different geologic processes shape Earth’s history over widely varying scales of space and time (e.g., chemical and physical erosion; tectonic plate processes; volcanic eruptions; meteor impacts; regional geographical features, including Alabama fault lines, Rickwood Caverns, and Wetumpka Impact Crater).
Provide evidence from data of the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to explain past plate motions.
Use models to explain how the flow of Earth’s internal energy drives a cycling of matter between Earth’s surface and deep interior causing plate movements (e.g., mid-ocean ridges, ocean trenches, volcanoes, earthquakes, mountains, rift valleys, volcanic islands).