1. PLATETECTONICS
We now know that, directly or indirectly, plate tectonics influences nearly all geologic processes, past and present. ... In geologic terms, a plate is a large, rigid slab of solid rock. ... This way of thinking was known as "catastrophism," and geology (the study of the Earth) was based on the belief that all earthly changes were sudden and caused by a series of catastrophes. ... Those holding this viewpoint assume that the geologic forces and processes -- gradual as well as catastrophic -- acting on the Earth today are the same as those that have acted in the geologic past. ... Wegener was...
- Word Count: 2775
- Approx Pages: 11
- Grade Level: Undergraduate