What are the key characteristics of plate tectonics?.

Plate tectonics is a scientific theory that describes the large-scale movements of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates. The main characteristics of plate tectonics include:

Key Facts

• The lithosphere is divided into approximately 15 major plates.
• Plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them.
• Movement occurs due to convection currents in the mantle.
• Plate boundaries can be divergent, convergent, or transform, each causing different geological activity.

Examples or Use Cases

• Earthquakes often occur at plate boundaries, such as the San Andreas Fault in California.
• The Himalayas were formed as a result of the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates.

FAQs

• What is the significance of plate tectonics? It explains many geological phenomena, including earthquakes, volcanic activity, and mountain-building.
• How fast do tectonic plates move? Most move at a rate of a few centimeters per year.