Section: STEM · Earth ScienceDifficulty: Easy
Plate Tectonics
USUK
The theory that Earth's lithosphere is divided into moving plates that shape the planet's surface.
Also: tectonic theory
Definition
Plate tectonics is the scientific theory describing how Earth's outer shell (lithosphere) is divided into several large and small plates that move relative to one another over the partially molten asthenosphere. Plate interactions at boundaries—convergent, divergent, or transform—are responsible for earthquakes, volcanic activity, mountain building, and the formation of ocean basins. The theory revolutionized earth science in the 1960s.
Example
“The Himalayan mountain range formed and continues to grow because the Indian tectonic plate is colliding with the Eurasian plate, pushing up the crust at a rate of about 5 mm per year.”
Synonyms
- tectonic theory
- lithospheric plate theory
- continental drift theory
Images
CC-licensed · free to useLoading images…
Video
Related Terms
- Earthquake
- Volcano
- Continental Drift
- Subduction Zone