Assignment #1

 Assignment 1: Tracking Earthquakes & Volcanoes with Google Earth

Assignment Reflection

There is a reason why the majority of earthquakes and volcanoes are found on or near plate boundaries. The Theory of Plate Tectonics claims that the plates are moving as a result of convection that is taking place in the mantle inside the earth. As the plates are forced to move, some will collide (converge) while others drift farther apart (diverge). Both of these types of plate boundaries support the Theory of Plate Tectonics because volcanoes and earthquakes are so common near plate boundaries.

The Mid Atlantic Ridge is an example of a divergent boundary that results in volcanoes. As the ridge continues to open up, earthquakes occur and volcanoes are formed. As a result of plates diverging, other plates are converging, especially in the Pacific Ocean. The Ring of Fire is located in the Pacific Ocean and is evidence that supports the Theory of Plate Tectonics. The large majority of volcanoes and earthquakes occur in the Ring of Fire because plates are converging and subducting. Oceanic to Continental plate boundaries are common sites for large earthquakes and volcanoes, especially in the Pacific Ocean. 

Earthquakes and volcanoes are correlated because they are found in similar locations and can serve as warning signs for each other. If earthquakes are happening near volcanoes, it is more likely that there will soon be an eruption. Also, a volcanic eruption can cause an earthquake. 

The Theory of Plate Tectonics is fascinating to me. I always noticed that the continents looked like they used to be connected, but I didn't know that there was actually more evidence than that. I never knew about the Mid Atlantic Ridge and I had never thought about the relationship between earthquakes and volcanoes. I learned that different plate boundaries result in different kinds of volcanoes and earthquakes. This class has answered a lot of questions I've had about the earth.

 Learning about earthquakes and volcanoes has changed the way I look at the earth. As I sit here on the surface of the earth, I wonder what is happening below me under the surface. I have really enjoyed studying earthquakes and volcanoes in this class. It all makes so much sense to me now! But I still have so much to learn..