What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

Question

1.Height of mountains
2.Distribution of fossils and rocks
3.Color of the ocean water
4.Distribution of animal species

Answer 1

The theory of plate tectonics is supported by various lines of evidence. Among the options you've provided, the following two are substantial pieces of evidence:

1. Height of mountains: Mountains often form at tectonic plate boundaries, particularly where plates collide (convergent boundaries). The uplift of mountain ranges, like the Himalayas, supports the idea that Earth's lithosphere is divided into moving plates.

2. Distribution of fossils and rocks: The similarity of fossils found on separate continents (like the fossils of the Mesosaurus found in both South America and Africa) and the presence of similar rock formations across different continents suggest that these landmasses were once connected and have since drifted apart.

The other two options, "color of the ocean water" and "distribution of animal species," do not directly support the theory of plate tectonics. While ocean water color is influenced by factors like depth and algae, and animal species distribution can be influenced by various ecological and evolutionary factors, they are not direct evidence for tectonic plate movement.

Answer 2

Choose one!

Answer 3

If I have to choose one piece of evidence that best supports the theory of plate tectonics, I would select:

2. Distribution of fossils and rocks.

This evidence clearly demonstrates how continents have moved over time, as similar fossils and geological formations are found on widely separated continents, indicating they were once joined.