What could happen in the future as the tectonic plates continue to move?
Plate tectonics moves the continents around on a scale of 100s of millions of year. On a more immediate time scale, earthquakes are a signal that the plates are still moving about and we can expect to see a continuation of these in the future.
What is the importance of knowing the location of faults and plate boundaries?
Plate boundaries are important because they are often associated with earthquakes and volcanoes. When Earth’s tectonic plates grind past one another, enormous amounts of energy can be released in the form of earthquakes.
What is happening to Iceland plate tectonics?
Because Iceland lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, it is being split by the movements of the shifting tectonic plates. The plates are moving apart, one to the east, the other to the west, and both the North American and the Eurasian systems are moving to the northwest across the hotspot.
Why Iceland is being torn apart?
Iceland is being “torn apart” The reason for this seismic activity is the location of Iceland on top the Atlantic ridge, the divergent boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates: As the two plates drift in opposite directions Iceland is in effect slowly being split apart.
Where do we find the youngest land on Earth?
The baby island bubbled from the ocean about 65 kilometres northwest of the capital Nuku’alofa, becoming the world’s youngest land mass. The South Pacific archipelago’s 177th island is basically made up of minuscule pieces of volcanic rock piled on top of each other.
What are 3 interesting facts about Iceland?
13 strange and interesting facts about Iceland
- More than 60% of the Icelandic population live in the capital city, Reykjavik.
- Iceland was the last place on earth to be settled by humans.
- Many Icelanders believe in elves and trolls.
- You can swim outdoors in hot springs all year round.