Final answer:
Continental drift is the theory that continents move over the Earth's surface through geological time, which was proposed by Alfred Wegener in 1915. It happens due to the slow movement of Earth's tectonic plates driven by heat-induced convection currents in the mantle. These movements have reshaped Earth's crust and have contributed to various geological phenomena.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is Continental Drift?
Continental drift is a theory that explains the gradual movement of the continents across the Earth's surface through geological time. This theory was initially proposed by a German scientist named Alfred Wegener in 1915. Wegener's hypothesis suggested that the continents were once joined together in a single landmass called Pangaea, which later broke up and the pieces drifted apart.
Why Does Continental Drift Happen?
The process of continental drift is part of the broader theory of plate tectonics. Plate tectonics describes how the Earth's surface is divided into several large plates that move over the mantle, the semi-fluid upper part of the Earth's interior.
This movement is driven by the heat from the Earth's core causing convection currents in the mantle. As these plates shift, they carry continents with them, leading to their drift. This movement not only changes the position of the continents but also leads to the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. It is a cooling system for our planet, allowing for heat transfer from the interior of the Earth out towards space.