Geologic Hazards and A Dynamic Planet

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xpunivrf

Science

Description

Describe how Wegener's continental drift hypothesis has helped to shape modern plate tectonic theory, and why his hypothesis was not widely accepted by his peers when first proposed. Analyze the types of evidence used to support plate tectonic theory.

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Explanation & Answer

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Wegener hypothesis proposed that the continents had once been joined, and over time had drifted apart. The jigsaw fit that the continents make with each other can be seen looking at the map supporting the theory that the world was one before drifting. South America can be dragged and rotated  so you can try to see how well it joins with Africa.

Drawbacks

Wegener did not have an explanation for how continental drift could have occurred. He proposed two different mechanisms for this drift. One was based on the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the earth and another a 'tidal argument' based on the tidal attraction of the sun and the moon. These explanations could easily be proven inadequate

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Anonymous
Very useful material for studying!

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