How do tectonic plates influence geographical features globally?

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's crust that move and interact at their boundaries, causing significant geological phenomena. These movements shape landscapes and create various geographical features.

Key Facts

• The Earth's crust is divided into about 15 major tectonic plates.
• Plate tectonics explains the formation of mountains, ocean basins, and earthquakes.
• The Himalayas, formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, are the highest mountain range in the world.
• The Pacific Ring of Fire is a region with frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, marking the boundaries of several tectonic plates.

Examples or Use Cases

• The San Andreas Fault in California is a well-known transform boundary, highlighting the effects of tectonic movement.
• The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is an example of a divergent boundary where new ocean floor is created.

FAQs

What causes earthquakes? Earthquakes occur primarily due to the movement of tectonic plates along faults.

How do mountains form? Mountains often form at convergent boundaries where plates collide, pushing land upward.