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Explain the theory of plate tectonics and how they have changed Earth’s surface over time. Include the role of plate tectonics in the creation of landforms.

User Brian F Leighty
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2 Answers

7 votes
7 votes

Answer:

The theory of plate tectonics describes the movement of the plates across the Earth's lithosphere (the crust and upper mantle) through immense periods of time. Earth's litoshphere is composed of 7 (or 8, depending on how they are defined) major plates and many more minor plates.

The movement is attributed to different phenomena stemming from Earth's rotation, gravity, and mantle dynamics. All of these forces play a role in influencing the size, shape, and positioning of the different landmasses that currently shape our continents and islands.

User Jake McAllister
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23 votes
23 votes

Step-by-step explanation:

Plate tectonics is the scientific theory explaining the movement of the earth's crust. ... The movement of these tectonic plates is likely caused by convection currents in the molten rock in Earth's mantle below the crust. Earthquakes and volcanoes are the short-term results of this tectonic movement.

User Hesam Qodsi
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