Plate Tectonics Questions Medium
The theory of plate tectonics is a scientific explanation for the movement and interaction of Earth's lithospheric plates. It states that the Earth's outer shell, known as the lithosphere, is divided into several large and small plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them. These plates are constantly moving, either colliding, sliding past each other, or moving apart at plate boundaries.
The theory suggests that the driving force behind plate tectonics is the convective motion in the Earth's mantle. Heat from the Earth's core causes the mantle to circulate, creating convection currents. These currents cause the lithospheric plates to move, leading to various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.
Plate tectonics also explains the distribution of continents and oceans on Earth's surface. It suggests that the continents were once part of a supercontinent called Pangaea, which began to break apart around 200 million years ago. The movement of the plates has since caused the continents to drift apart, forming the current configuration of continents and oceans.
Overall, the theory of plate tectonics provides a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic nature of Earth's surface and the processes that shape it. It has revolutionized the field of geology and has helped scientists explain a wide range of geological phenomena observed on our planet.