plate tectonics
Plate tectonics is a scientific theory that describes the movement and interaction of large pieces of the Earth's lithosphere, known as tectonic plates. These plates are like giant puzzle pieces that fit together to form the Earth's outer shell. Plate tectonics explains many geological phenomena, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, mountain building, and the distribution of continents and ocean basins. Here's a comprehensive explanation of plate tectonics: **1. Lithospheric Plates:** The Earth's lithosphere is divided into several large and small tectonic plates, which float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them. These plates are composed of both the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. The boundaries between plates are regions of intense geological activity. **2. Types of Plate Boundaries:** There are three primary types of plate boundaries, each associated with distinct geological processes: - **Divergent Boundaries:** At divergent boundaries, t...