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

5 answers

Paleomagnetic evidence supports the theory of continental drift by showing that the Earth's magnetic field has undergone significant changes over time. The Earth's magnetic field is generated by its solid inner core, and the geological record shows that at different points in time, the magnetic poles have shifted their positions. This is evident by studying the magnetic properties of rocks, as they preserve a record of the Earth's magnetic field at the time they were formed. By comparing the magnetic orientations of rocks on different continents, scientists have been able to establish that continents move and change their positions relative to each other over time.
Can you simplify this
Paleomagnetic evidence supports the theory of continental drift by showing that the Earth's magnetic field has changed in the past. The Earth's magnetic field is generated by its inner core, and the record of rocks reveals that the magnetic poles have shifted their positions over time. By comparing the magnetic orientations of rocks on different continents, scientists have found that continents move and change their positions relative to each other.
Can you phrase this differently
Paleomagnetic evidence provides support for the theory of continental drift by demonstrating that the Earth's magnetic field has experienced changes throughout history. The magnetic properties of rocks serve as a record of the Earth's magnetic field at the time of their formation. By comparing the magnetic orientations of rocks on different continents, scientists have been able to establish that continents have moved and shifted their positions in relation to each other over time.