Understanding Plate Tectonics
Plate tectonics theory explains the movement of Earth's lithosphere. It consists of several large and small plates that move over the asthenosphere, a semi-fluid layer beneath.
Continents On The Move
Continental drift suggests continents are in constant motion. Alfred Wegener, the theory's proponent, was initially dismissed until plate tectonics provided a mechanism for his observations.
Earth's Dynamic Puzzle
Earth's plates fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. Their interactions cause earthquakes, volcanic activity, mountain-building, and ocean trench formation, constantly reshaping our planet's surface.
Pangea: Supercontinent Cycle
About 335 million years ago, Earth's landmasses merged into the supercontinent Pangea. Plate tectonics eventually split it apart, a process that continues to influence the Earth's geography.
Mid-Ocean Ridges Unveiled
Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges where new oceanic crust forms. As plates diverge, magma rises, creating new crust, a process known as seafloor spreading.
Subduction Zones: Hidden Power
Subduction zones occur where an oceanic plate is forced beneath another plate into the mantle. This process recycles crust and can generate powerful earthquakes and tsunamis.
Hotspots: Volcanic Anomalies
Hotspots are volcanic regions fed by underlying mantle that is anomalously hot compared with the surrounding mantle. They create volcanic islands, like Hawaii, as plates move over them.