A scientist measured the distance between fixed points on two different plates over the course of a decade and found that the distance did not change. Does this result support the theory of plate tectonics? Why or why not?

Answer 1

No, this result does not support the theory of plate tectonics. The theory of plate tectonics states that the Earth's lithosphere is divided into several rigid plates that are constantly moving and interacting with each other. The measured distance between fixed points on two different plates remaining unchanged over a decade suggests that there was no relative motion between these plates during that time period. This contradicts the fundamental concept of plate tectonics where the plates are expected to move and cause various geologic activities such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the creation of mountain ranges. Therefore, the result of the distance not changing does not support the theory of plate tectonics.