Chapter 11 The Dynamic Planet

Geosystems 6eAn Introduction to Physical Geography

Robert W. ChristophersonCharles E. Thomsen

The Dynamic Planet

The Geologic Time Scale  

Earth’s Structure and Internal Energy  

The Geologic Cycle    

Plate Tectonics  

Geologic Time Scale

Figure 11.1

Earth’s Structure and Internal Energy  

Earth’s Core  InnerOuter

Earth’s Mantle  Asthenosphere

Earth’s Lithosphere and Crust Continental crustOceanic crust 

Earth in Cross Section

Figure 11.2

Earth’s Interior

Figure 11.2

Earth’s Interior

Figure 11.2

Figure 11.2

Earth’s Interior

Core to Crust

Figure 11.3

The vast give-and-take at the Earth-atmosphere-ocean interface or cycling within the lithosphere

Fueled by the sun and Earth’s internal heat

Hydrologic Cycle

Rock Cycle

Tectonic Cycle

The Geologic Cycle

The Geologic CycleRock Cycle

Rock – assemblage of minerals bound together or a mass of a single mineral…  Minerals – inorganic, nonliving, natural compound having a chemical formula and crystalline structure  

Igneous Processes  Sedimentary Processes  Metamorphic Processes  

The Geologic Cycle

Figure 11.5

The Rock Cycle

Figure 11.6

Igneous Rock Types

Figure 11.7

Sedimentary Rock Types

Figure 11.9

Plate Tectonics  Conceptual model and theory of crustal movement  

Continental drift

Sea-floor spreading

Subduction of the Crust  

Crustal Movements

Figure 11.14

Magnetic Reversals

Figure 11.15

Relative Age of the Oceanic Crust

Figure 11.16

Continents Adrift

Figure 11.17

Earth’s Major Plates

Figure 11.18

Ocean Floor

Figure 11.19

Transform Faults

Figure 11.20

Earthquakes and Volcanoes

Figure 11.21

Hot Spot Tracks

Figure 11.21

End of Chapter 11

Geosystems 6eAn Introduction to Physical Geography

Robert W. ChristophersonCharles E. Thomsen