Final answer:
The understanding of plate tectonics has greatly developed since Alfred Wegener's time, with new evidence and technological advancements supporting and expanding our knowledge.
Step-by-step explanation:
The understanding of plate tectonics has developed significantly since Alfred Wegener's time. When Wegener proposed the theory of continental drift in the early 20th century, he faced skepticism and criticism. However, new evidence and technological advancements, such as seafloor mapping and GPS measurements, have supported and expanded our understanding of plate tectonics.
We now have a better understanding of how the Earth's lithosphere is divided into several large and small plates that interact with each other. We know that the movement of these plates drives various geological processes, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges. Additionally, the discovery of mid-ocean ridges, subduction zones, and the mechanism of plate boundary interactions have further solidified the concept of plate tectonics.
Overall, the understanding of plate tectonics has evolved from a controversial theory to a widely accepted framework that helps explain the dynamic nature of our planet's surface.
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