Use Figure 3 from the passage to complete the table. First, write the numbers of the particle images in the table to show the correct spacing and movement of the particles in each location. Then, write the phrases in the table to show the thermal energy in each location.
Add one check mark in each row of the table to identify each event from the passage as either a slow process or a rapid process.
Slow Process | Rapid Process | |
|---|---|---|
movement of the Nazca plate | ||
earthquake in Valdivia | ||
mountain formation at subduction zone | ||
volcanic eruption in 2015 |
The Andes Mountains are located in South America, as shown in Figure 1, Map A. They are the world’s longest mountain chain located on Earth’s continents. Also, the vast majority of volcanoes in South America are located in this mountain region. Several of the volcanoes are active. One volcanic eruption in 2015 resulted in ash clouds reaching 6,000 meters in height.
This region formed as a result of mountain building over millions of years. This was mostly caused by the movement of the Nazca and South American tectonic plates. This movement also formed several volcanoes, as shown in Figure 1, Map B.
Figure 2 shows a cross-section view of how the Andes formed. The process shown is called subduction. This occurs when the dense oceanic crust of one plate moves beneath the less dense continental crust.
The lithosphere, which is part of the lower crust and upper mantle, also moves below the less dense continent. As this happens, the rock experiences intense heat and pressure, resulting in the formation of magma. This magma rises to eventually play a part in the formation of volcanoes.
The subduction process involves great forces that can also result in earthquakes. One of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded occurred in Valdivia, Chile, which is located in the southern region of the Andes.
Figure 3 shows a global view of how the Andes formed. Rock is formed at the mid-ocean ridge of the Pacific Ocean. As this rock is formed, the rock pushes outward. This causes rock at the subduction zone near the Andes to move under the continental crust.
Based on the information in the passage and Figure 1, which process does Figure 3 best model?
What is the primary energy source for tectonic plate movement?
Based on Figure 3, describe what happens to the mantle when it interacts with Earth's crust at the mid-ocean ridge.