Question

In 3-5 sentences describe how paleomagnetic evidence supports the theory that continents change position (drift) over time.

Answer 1

Paleomagnetic evidence supports the theory of continental drift by demonstrating that the Earth's magnetic field has changed throughout geological history. When rocks form, they preserve the direction and strength of the magnetic field at that time. By studying the magnetism of rocks in different continents, scientists have observed periods where magnetic fields were significantly different, suggesting the continents were in different positions. This supports the idea that continents have indeed moved over time, as proposed by the theory of continental drift.