Final answer:
Magnetic reversals have supported the theory of Plate Tectonics by evidencing the symmetrical pattern of Earth's magnetic field imprinted on oceanic crust as it forms at mid-ocean ridges, demonstrating the historical movement of tectonic plates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Magnetic reversals have helped to support the theory of Plate Tectonics. This is because the patterns of magnetization in rocks on the ocean floor record the history of Earth's magnetic field, which includes numerous reversals. As new material extrudes at mid-ocean ridges such as the mid-Atlantic ridge and solidifies, it acquires the current magnetic orientation.
These patterns are symmetrical on either side of the ridge and can be used to trace the movement of tectonic plates over time. Understanding the rate of spreading at these ridges allows geologists to date these magnetic reversals, thereby creating a historical record of plate movement.
The theory of plate tectonics explains various geological phenomena like earthquakes, continental drift, mountain building, and volcanic eruptions, including the creation of the Hawaiian island chain. This theory is foundational in geology and has been crucial in reconstructing Earth's history, explaining the geographic distribution of geological features, and informing hypotheses for the origin of life. The theory was first proposed as 'continental drift' by Alfred Wegener in 1915 and later developed further in the 1960s following additional evidence and the discovery of mid-ocean ridges.