Which statements accurately compare the tectonic activity of the planets? …

History Questions

Which statements accurately compare the tectonic activity of the planets check all that apply

Short Answer

Terrestrial planets have solid surfaces and experience tectonic activities like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, while gas giants lack solid surfaces and are geologically inactive, resulting in no tectonic movements.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understand Terrestrial and Gas Giants

Terrestrial planets possess a solid surface, allowing for physical structures such as mountains and valleys. In contrast, gas giants like Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus primarily consist of gases without a defined solid surface. Hence, they lack the geological features that characterize terrestrial planets.

Step 2: Tectonic Activities on Terrestrial Planets

Tectonic activities arise from the movement of molten material within the interiors of terrestrial planets. This internal activity leads to phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Only terrestrial planets, including Earth, experience these dynamic geological processes due to their solid crusts that can shift and reshape.

Step 3: Absence of Tectonic Activity in Gas Giants

Gas giants do not exhibit tectonic activities since they lack a solid surface that can move or break apart. Their composition primarily consists of gases, resulting in a stable, unchanging exterior. Thus, without volcanic activity or shifting plates, gas giants remain geologically inactive compared to their terrestrial counterparts.

Related Concepts

Terrestrial Planets

Planets with a solid surface that have physical structures like mountains and valleys

Gas Giants

Planets that primarily consist of gases without a defined solid surface, such as saturn, neptune, and uranus

Tectonic Activity

Geological processes that arise from the movement of molten material within a planet’s interior, leading to phenomena like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

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