explain what is plate tectonics theory
Plate tectonics is the theory that Earth's outer shell is divided into several plates that glide over the mantle, the rocky inner layer above the core. The plates act like a hard and rigid shell compared to Earth's mantle. This strong outer layer is called the lithosphere, which is 100 km (60 miles) thick, according to Encyclopedia Britannica. The lithosphere includes the crust and outer part of the mantle. Below the lithosphere is the asthenosphere, which is malleable or partially malleable, allowing the lithosphere to move around. How it moves around is an evolving idea.
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explain what is plate tectonics theory
Plate Tectonics Theory
Plate tectonics is a scientific theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into several large and small plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them.
Key Points:
- The theory suggests that the Earth's lithosphere is broken into several plates that are constantly moving and interacting with each other.
- These plates can move apart, collide, or slide past each other, causing various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain formation.
- The movement of these plates is driven by the heat generated from the Earth's core, which creates convection currents in the mantle that push the plates around.
- Plate boundaries are classified into three main types: divergent boundaries (where plates move apart), convergent boundaries (where plates collide), and transform boundaries (where plates slide past each other).
- The theory of plate tectonics has helped scientists understand and predict natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, as well as the distribution of natural resources like oil and minerals.
In conclusion, plate tectonics theory provides a comprehensive explanation for the dynamic processes that shape the Earth's surface and continue to influence our planet's geology and geography.
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