What is the theory that Earth’s surface is composed of several rock plates that fit together like the pieces of a puzzle?(1 point)

Responsesmetamorphism
metamorphism

plate tectonics
plate tectonics

geological shift
geological shift

divergent plate boundary

plate tectonics

Which mineral could have been deposited by black smokers on the seafloor?(1 point)

Responses

iron sulfide
iron sulfide

calcium
calcium

barium
barium

silicon

iron sulfide

What does discovery of giant rabbit fossils on an island in the Mediterranean Sea tell scientists about the Earth’s changing landforms?(1 point)

Responses

The island had remained unchanged since its formation.
The island had remained unchanged since its formation.

The island had been underwater in the past.
The island had been underwater in the past.

The island was formed by a volcanic eruption in the past.
The island was formed by a volcanic eruption in the past.

The island had to be connected to the mainland in the past.

The island had been underwater in the past.

The theory that Earth's surface is composed of several rock plates that fit together like the pieces of a puzzle is called plate tectonics. This theory explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere (the rigid outer layer of the Earth) and the geological phenomena associated with it, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges. Plate tectonics suggests that the Earth's lithosphere is divided into several large and small plates that are constantly moving and interacting with each other. These plates can move apart at divergent plate boundaries, collide at convergent plate boundaries, or slide past each other at transform plate boundaries. The interaction between these plates results in various geological features and events that shape our planet.