Deconstructing Tectonics: Ten Animated Explorations

• Main Authors: Christopher R. Scotese, Ben A. van derPluijm
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: American Geophysical Union (AGU) 2020-11-01
• Series: Earth and Space Science
• Subjects: tectonics; paleogeography; education
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1029/2019EA000989

Abstract The configuration of continents and oceans of our tectonically active planet is ever changing. Using new, high‐resolution paleogeographic base maps, we created a set of animations that examine key elements of plate tectonics. These time‐ and space‐based paleoglobe reconstructions illustrate continental rifting, continental breakup, ocean ridges and fracture zones, hot spot tracks, arc‐backarc systems, continental collision, terrane accretion, opening‐closing of ocean basins, supercontinent formation, plate velocities, and future Earth. Each animation is supported by a narrative that offers a brief topical overview, some observations to guide a user's exploration, and key references that formulated the main ideas and concepts that became the foundations of modern plate tectonics.