Plate Tectonics: Direct Measurement of Plate Movement

What equipment permitted the first direct measurement of plate movement?

a. Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR)
b. Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR)
c. Echo Sounding
d. Global Positioning System (GPS)

Answer:

The equipment that permitted the first direct measurement of plate movement is the Global Positioning System (GPS).

Plate tectonics is the study of the movement and interaction of Earth's lithospheric plates. For many years, scientists relied on indirect evidence to determine the movement of these plates, such as the distribution of earthquakes and the shape of the ocean floor. However, the development of new technology has allowed for direct measurements of plate movement.

GPS is a network of satellites that transmit signals to receivers on Earth, allowing precise measurements of location and movement. By placing GPS receivers on different plates, scientists can measure the distance between them and track their movement over time.

GPS has been used to study plate movement in a variety of settings, from the slow, steady movement of plates in the middle of the ocean to the more rapid movement of plates along fault zones. These measurements have helped scientists to better understand the dynamics of plate tectonics, including the causes of earthquakes, volcanoes, and other geologic phenomena.