2. How does hot spot theory explain how the Hawaiian Islands formed?
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The hot spot theory explains how the Hawaiian Islands formed by proposing that a single, stationary hotspot beneath the Earth's crust has been responsible for creating a chain of volcanic islands. According to this theory, a tectonic plate moves over the hotspot, causing a volcanic eruption. As the plate continues to move, a new island forms over the hotspot, while the previously formed islands move away from it. Over time, a chain of islands is formed, with the oldest island being the furthest from the hotspot and the youngest island being directly over it. This theory explains the age progression seen in the Hawaiian Islands, with the oldest islands in the northwest and the youngest in the southeast.