Question

How did this new data help support the theory of plate tectonics?

Answer 1

New data, such as the presence of similar fossils on separate continents and corresponding geological features, supports the theory of plate tectonics by demonstrating how Earth's structure and landscapes have changed. These findings contribute to the validation of ancient continent movement and the ongoing reshaping of the planet's surface.

Step-by-step explanation:

Plate tectonics is the underpinning theory in geology that explains the motion of the Earth's lithosphere, which is comprised of tectonic plates that include both the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.

The puzzle-like fit of the continents, distribution of fossils, geological features, and the evidence of an older Earth provided initial support for this theory.

However, it was Wegener's hypothesis of continental drift and Hess's idea of seafloor spreading, along with advancements in geophysics and oceanography, that strengthened this foundational geological concept.

The theory helps to explain many aspects of the Earth's structure and processes, such as the formation of mountains, volcanoes, and oceanic trenches, as well as the distribution of fossils and the traces of past climates on different continents.

New data, such as the findings of fossils of ancient sea life on lands far from oceans and the observation of matching rock layers and mountain ranges across continents, have played a crucial role in supporting the theory of plate tectonics.

Additionally, it's worth noting the role of physics in predicting the motion of tectonic plates and how the flow of water affects Earth's surface.

This interdisciplinary approach provided more comprehensive support for plate tectonics, showing not only the validity of the theory but also the intricate connections between geological processes and physical laws.

Answer 2

New data supports the theory of plate tectonics by providing additional evidence that continents have moved over time, such as geological formations and fossil records. The mechanisms for this movement, such as sea floor spreading, were explained with the progress in geology, oceanography, and geophysics over the 20th century.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding Plate Tectonics

New data helps support the theory of plate tectonics by providing evidence that complements and expands upon the initial hypotheses proposed by scientists like Alfred Wegener.

Wegener, who introduced the concept of continental drift in 1915, suggested that continents moved over time based on several types of evidence, including the fit of continental boundaries, similar fossils found across oceans, and corresponding mountain ranges and paleoclimatic evidence across different landmasses. However, the mechanism for this movement was not explained until later scientific advancements in the 20th century.

Key evidence that further supported plate tectonics came from observations of fossils of ancient sea life found on dry land, the sequences of rock layers, and historical geological activity such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and erosion.

In the 1960s, this idea was expanded upon by scientists like Harry Hess, who introduced the concept of sea floor spreading. Today, physics contributes to the understanding of plate movements and their effects on Earth's surface, solidifying plate tectonics as a foundational theory in geology.