How do tectonic plates shape Earth's geographical features?.

Tectonic plates are massive sections of Earth's crust that move and interact at their boundaries. This movement shapes Earth's geographical features in several key ways:

Key Facts

• Earth's lithosphere is divided into about 15 major tectonic plates.
• The movement of tectonic plates occurs at an average speed of 2 to 5 centimeters per year.
• Plate boundaries can create various geological features like mountains, rift valleys, and oceanic trenches.
• The Himalayas, formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, are the tallest mountains on Earth.

Examples or Use Cases

• The San Andreas Fault in California illustrates the effects of transform boundaries, leading to frequent earthquakes.
• The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a divergent boundary where new ocean floor is created, showcasing tectonic activity beneath oceans.

FAQs

• What causes tectonic plates to move? Tectonic plates move due to convection currents in the mantle beneath them.
• How do tectonic plates affect climate? The arrangement of continents affects ocean currents and climate patterns.