How do tectonic plates affect Earth's geography and climate?.

Tectonic plates are massive sections of Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries, resulting in various geological phenomena.

Key Facts

• The Earth's lithosphere is divided into about 15 major tectonic plates.
• Plate interactions can cause earthquakes, with over 1 million detected annually.
• Mountain ranges like the Himalayas were formed from the collision of tectonic plates.
• Volcanic activity, such as the Ring of Fire, is primarily located at plate boundaries.
• Tectonic movements also influence ocean currents, thereby affecting global climate.

Examples or Use Cases

• The Andes mountains were formed by the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate.
• The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a divergent boundary where new oceanic crust is created, affecting marine ecosystems.

FAQs

• What are tectonic plates? Tectonic plates are rigid segments of the Earth's crust that move and interact with one another.
• How do tectonic movements affect climate? Changes in geography due to tectonic activity can influence wind patterns and ocean currents, thus altering climate.