What was the name of the southern continent that split from Pangaea?

Study for the Aquatic Science Plate Tectonics Test. Explore comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each accompanied by insights and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

The name of the southern continent that split from Pangaea is Gondwanaland. This ancient supercontinent was a significant landmass that included what are now South America, Africa, Antarctica, Australia, and the Indian subcontinent. Gondwanaland existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, and its breakup began approximately 175 million years ago.

The term Gondwana is often used interchangeably with Gondwanaland in modern discussions but refers to the same concept of the landmasses that once formed this southern part of Pangaea. The distinction is that Gondwanaland is the historical name, while Gondwana is used in paleogeographical terms.

In contrast, Laurasia was the northern supercontinent that formed after Pangaea split, consisting of North America, Europe, and Asia, and Atlantis is a mythological island and not related to the scientific discussions of continental drift.

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