Chapter 10: Problem 1

List some of the evidence used by Wegener to support his idea of moving continents.

Short Answer

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Some of the evidence used by Wegener to support his idea of moving continents includes: 1) the apparent fit of continents, like the west coast of Africa and the east coast of South America; 2) the distribution of similar fossils across different continents; 3) similarities in rock formations and geologic structures on different continents; 4) the presence of glacial deposits and striations across the globe; and 5) paleoclimatic evidence suggesting continents had experienced different climates in the past. This evidence contributed to the development of the modern theory of plate tectonics.

Step by step solution

1. Fit of continents

One of the most striking pieces of evidence supporting the idea of moving continents is the apparent fit of the continents with each other, such as the west coast of Africa and the east coast of South America. Wegener noticed that these continents seemed to fit together like puzzle pieces.

2. Fossil distribution

Wegener analyzed the distribution of similar fossils across different continents. He found that certain fossils were only found on specific continents, even though the climate and environmental conditions were similar in other areas. For example, the same plant and animal fossils were found on the east coast of South America and on the west coast of Africa, suggesting that these continents were once connected.

3. Similar rock formations

Wegener also noticed that there were similarities in the rock formations and geologic structures on different continents. For example, there are distinct mountain ranges on the east coast of North America and on the west coast of Europe with the same age and rock types, suggesting that these continents were once joined together.

4. Glacial deposits and striations

Glacial deposits and striations (scratches left by moving glaciers) were found on continents across the globe, even in areas that are currently warm and tropical. This indicated that the continents had once been in different positions, experiencing glacial periods or being closer to the poles.

5. Paleoclimatic evidence

Wegener also used paleoclimatic evidence to support his idea of moving continents. By comparing the evidence of past climates on different continents, he found that continents had experienced different climates in the past, which could only be explained if the continents had been in different positions on the Earth's surface. These pieces of evidence helped Wegener to formulate his theory of continental drift, which ultimately led to the development of the modern theory of plate tectonics.

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List some of the evidence used by Wegener to support his idea of moving continents.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

1. Fit of continents

2. Fossil distribution

3. Similar rock formations

4. Glacial deposits and striations

5. Paleoclimatic evidence

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