Final answer:
The theory of plate tectonics explains the movement of Earth's lithosphere and the formation of various geological features, such as mountain chains. Tectonic plates are constantly moving pieces of Earth's crust floating above the mantle, not fixed or moving as a collective whole. This scientific concept is well-supported and accepted in the geological community.
Step-by-step explanation:
The theory of plate tectonics is a well-accepted scientific concept that explains the movement of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates. These plates float atop the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them. The theory helps to explain the formation of various geological features, including mountain chains, volcanoes, and oceanic trenches. The correct answer to the question about what is true about the theory of plate tectonics is b. The theory explains the location of mountain chains.
Contrary to some misconceptions, Earth's crust is not composed of non-moving pieces; it is divided into several tectonic plates that are constantly moving, albeit very slowly. This movement can lead to the shifting of continents, as well as seismic activities such as earthquakes when plates interact at their boundaries. This answers the parts of the question stating that Earth's crust is broken into individual, non-moving pieces or moves only as a collective whole, which are both incorrect statements.
By understanding plate tectonics, geologists can reconstruct Earth's geological history, comprehending the development of the first continents, the formation of oceans, and offering insights into the origin of life. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of mountains, volcanoes, and other geological phenomena is explained within the context of this theory, which integrates findings from multiple lines of evidence including the shape of continents, the distribution of rocks and fossils, and environmental indicators. GPS satellite measurements confirm the ongoing movement of these tectonic plates.