1. The Theory of Continental Drift

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

3. 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

4. Evidence to Support the Theory

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

6. 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

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

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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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