Question 59
Try out these models to show what happens where tectonic plates meet.
You will need:
- a large piece of cloth, 2 pieces of paper, modelling clay, 2 chocolate bars with soft centres (not solid chocolate)
Safety
Do not attempt to eat chocolate that has been used in a classroom or laboratory.
Model A
Place a large piece of cloth on the table.
Place your hands flat on the cloth, about 30 cm apart. Push your hands together.
Model B
Place two pieces of paper flat on the table so that they are touching. Push them together. Can you make them slide so that one piece goes over the other one? This is similar to what happens when one tectonic plate slides over another. Can you make the pieces of paper form mountains?
Model C
Use modelling clay and make two flat pieces. Place them on the table and then push them together. What happens?
Model D
Push the two chocolate-covered bars together. What happens?
For each of the models you used:
Discuss the strengths and limitations of the model.
You will need:
- a large piece of cloth, 2 pieces of paper, modelling clay, 2 chocolate bars with soft centres (not solid chocolate)
Safety
Do not attempt to eat chocolate that has been used in a classroom or laboratory.
Model A
Place a large piece of cloth on the table.
Place your hands flat on the cloth, about 30 cm apart. Push your hands together.
Model B
Place two pieces of paper flat on the table so that they are touching. Push them together. Can you make them slide so that one piece goes over the other one? This is similar to what happens when one tectonic plate slides over another. Can you make the pieces of paper form mountains?
Model C
Use modelling clay and make two flat pieces. Place them on the table and then push them together. What happens?
Model D
Push the two chocolate-covered bars together. What happens?
For each of the models you used:
Discuss the strengths and limitations of the model.
