What are the major tectonic plates and their boundaries?.

The Earth’s lithosphere is divided into several major tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere. The major plates include:

1. Pacific Plate: The largest tectonic plate, covering the Pacific Ocean.
2. North American Plate: Extends from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arctic Ocean.
3. Eurasian Plate: Includes Europe and Asia.
4. African Plate: Covers the African continent and part of the Atlantic Ocean.
5. South American Plate: Contains South America and parts of the Atlantic.
6. Antarctic Plate: Covers Antarctica and its surrounding ocean.
7. Indo-Australian Plate: Includes Australia and parts of the Indian Ocean.

Key Facts

• The Pacific Plate is about 103 million square kilometers.
• Tectonic plate movements can cause earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain formation.
• The boundaries between plates are classified as divergent, convergent, or transform.
• The mid-Atlantic ridge is an example of a divergent boundary.

Examples or Use Cases

• Earthquakes along the San Andreas Fault (transform boundary).
• Volcanic activity in the Ring of Fire (convergent boundaries).

FAQs

1. What causes tectonic plates to move?
   • The movement is driven by convection currents in the mantle.