Using Google Earth to Explore Plate Tectonics

This page is authored by Laurel Goodell, Department of Geosciences, Princeton University. Author Profile



Summary Students are introduced to Google Earth, and then start by exploring the major physiographic features of the continents and seafloor. They then use a kmz file, compiled by the author, which includes layers showing seafloor age, locations and depths of 20 years worth of large earthquakes, USGS dynamically updated near-real time earthquakes, volcano locations, "hot-spot" tracks with age dates, and the Bird (2003) plate boundary model. A guided exploration of these data serves as an introduction to plate tectonics - including the general characteristics of plates and plate boundaries, and the use of seafloor age and "hot spot" tracks to determine long-term average rates of plate motion.

Learning Goals

Students learn how to use Google Earth and become familiar with the some of the important data on which the theory of plate tectonics is based, and how long-term average plate motions are determined. As a culminating (and assessment) activity they sketch a cross-section across three major plate boundaries - from the African plate, across the South Atlantic plate, across the Nazca plate, and ending in the middle of the Pacific Plate.

Context for Use

This exercise is adaptable for all level of students, from introductory level students to more-advanced students wanting a crash course in plate tectonics. I submit two versions, one being slower-paced and more explicitly guided. I have used it in a number of class settings. For example, for our hazards course for non-majors, I assign a portion of the more-explicitly guided version as a preparation assignment, then students complete the rest during a lab session. For our faster-paced introductory class typically taken by more quantitatively-able students including engineers, the less-guided versions is assigned as a problem set then discussed at precept. Depending on a student's previous experience with Google Earth, background in plate tectonics, and ease with simple graphing and calculations, and how far the instructor wants to take it, the whole exercise typically takes several hours to a lab period or two. No background is assumed, although it is helpful for students to have have a basic knowledge of global geography. The kmz file compiled by the author is a easy-to-use resource adaptable for other activities.

Description and Teaching Materials

Teaching Notes and Tips

Italian translated version of this activity, hosted by ICLEEN - Google Earth e la dinamica della Terra

Assessment

The last question serves as an appropriate assessment - students sketch a cross-section across three major plate boundaries. By assessing the sketch, the instructor can gauge the level and accuracy of student understanding. The sketches also serve as a natural springboard for discussion about various aspects of plate tectonics.