Lesson eLearning

If a tectonic plate moves at a speed of 4 cm per year, how far will it travel in 10 years?

medium 2 marks Class 7 · Geography · Our Changing Earth
Answer
40 cm (0.4 m)

The correct answer is 40 cm (0.4 m) — Answer: 40 cm (0.4 m).

Step-by-step solution

  1. The distance travelled equals speed multiplied by time.
  2. Speed = 4 cm/yr and time = 10 yr.
  3. Distance = 4 cm/yr × 10 yr = 40 cm.
  4. Convert 40 cm to metres: 40 cm ÷ 100 = 0.4 m.
  5. Thus the plate moves 40 cm, which is 0.4 m.
  6. Answer: 40 cm (0.4 m).
Common mistake: Forgetting to multiply or mis‑converting units

Concept tested: Plate motion calculation

Published · How this solution was prepared and checked

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