The theory of plate tectonics describes the movement of continental plates across the Earth's surface as if they were riding on
a conveyer belt of convection. Although the plate tectonic movement is extremely slow, there is evidence of this theory. Which
statements below support the theory of plate tectonics? Select ALL that apply.
A)Species became extinct more quickly at the end of the Cretaceous period.
B)99
Fossils of nearly identical species are found on both South America and
African continents.
C)Areas of subduction often have high seismic activity as one plate moves
under another plate.
D)Species become adapted to particular environments as random mutations
generate new phenotypes.
E)Marsupials existed on both North American and Australian continents
when these land masses were connected.
Fossils of nearly identical species are found on both South America and African continents. <em>Marsupials</em> existed on both North American and Australian continents when these land masses were connected. Areas of <em>subduction</em> often have high seismic activity as one plate moves under another plate. Since the continents were once joined, there is the likelihood that species originated in one location and then spread to other areas as the continents moved is likely. This explains the similarity of fossils or species in very geographically remote areas. The high activity of seismic movement also is best explained by plate movement.
