Continental Plate Tectonics

Continental plate tectonics is the scientific theory that Earth's outer shell, called the lithosphere, is divided into large, rigid sections known as tectonic plates. These plates constantly move atop the semi-fluid layer beneath them (the asthenosphere) due to heat-driven convection currents. The movement causes continents to drift over millions of years, leading to events like earthquakes, mountain formation, and volcanic activity. When plates collide, pull apart, or slide past each other, it shapes the Earth's surface, creating diverse geological features and influencing the planet's geological history.