Question

Which one of the following is an important fundamental assumption underlying the plate tectonic theory?

1) Continents are fixed and do not move
2) Earth's crust is made up of several large plates
3) Plate boundaries are the only areas where earthquakes and volcanic activity occur
4) The movement of plates is driven by convection currents in the mantle

Answer 1

An important assumption of plate tectonic theory is that Earth's crust is divided into large tectonic plates driven by mantle convection currents.

Step-by-step explanation:

An important fundamental assumption underlying the plate tectonic theory is that Earth's crust is composed of several large plates. This concept explains the drifting of continents, formation of mountains, and the occurrence of earthquakes and volcanic activity. Indeed, the movement of tectonic plates is driven by convection currents within the mantle. This process of heat transfer and movement shapes the earth's geological features and is continually transforming the planet's surface.