How do tectonic plates influence Earth's geography in 2024?.

Tectonic plates are massive sections of Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries, significantly influencing the planet's geography. Their movements can lead to:

Key Facts

• Earthquake Generation: Approximately 80% of the world's earthquakes occur along plate boundaries.
• Volcanic Activity: Nearly 90% of active volcanoes are located along plate boundaries, particularly the Pacific Ring of Fire.
• Mountain Formation: The Himalayas were formed from the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates about 50 million years ago.
• Ocean Basin Creation: Mid-ocean ridges are formed by diverging plates, creating new oceanic crust.

Examples or Use Cases

• Japan: Located at the convergence of multiple tectonic plates, it experiences frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
• The Andes: Formed due to the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate, creating a significant mountain range.

FAQs

• What causes tectonic plates to move? Tectonic plates move due to convection currents in the mantle beneath them.
• Are tectonic plates responsible for climate change? While they influence geological features, climate change is primarily caused by human activities.