The Theory of Continental Drift

Alfred Wegener 1912 Proponent of the continental drift theory/hypothesis German meteorologist

Continental Drift Theory The continental drift hypothesis- continents have moved slowly to their current locations All continents were once connected as one large landmass called “Pangaea” The land mass broke apart, and the continents drifted to their present positions

Evidence to Support the Theory

“Puzzle Pieces” Puzzle-like fit of the continents Continents look like they could be part of a giant jigsaw puzzle

Distribution of Fossils Similar fossils have been found on different continents Remains of warm-weather plants in Arctic areas and glacial deposits in tropical areas suggest that continents have moved

Sequence of Rocks Similar rock structures are found on different continents. Same rock patterns found in South America, India, Africa, Antarctica and Australia

Ancient Climates Tropical plant remains (coal deposits) found in Antarctica Glaciation in Africa, South America, India, and Australia during the same time

Problems With The Theory No mechanism for movement of continents Wind and currents could possibly move fossils Theory was not accepted by scientists At first, continental drift was not accepted because no one could explain how or why continents had moved

1930 Wegener leaves for Greenland to find evidence for his hypothesis. He is never seen again The last photo him His theory is hotly debated for the next 30 years

Continental Drift Theory *The continental drift hypothesis- continents have moved slowly to their current locations *All continents were once connected as one large landmass called “Pangaea” *The land mass broke apart, and the continents drifted to their present positions