Which of the following is true about tectonic plate motion

Question

A.) tectonic plates, move in directions out closely match the directions of underlying mantle, convection currents
B.) all tectonic plates, moving in the same direction and at the same rate
C.) tectonic plates, moving directions that are opposite the directions of underlying mantle, convection currents
D.) tectonic plate motion is not related in any way to the mantle convection currents

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

A.) tectonic plates move in directions that closely match the directions of underlying mantle convection currents.

This is because the movement of tectonic plates is driven by the convection currents in the mantle, which create forces that push and pull the plates in various directions. The other options are incorrect for the following reasons:

B.) All tectonic plates move in the same direction and at the same rate - This is not true as different plates can move in different directions and at different speeds.

C.) Tectonic plates are moving in directions that are opposite the directions of underlying mantle convection currents - This is also incorrect as the motion of tectonic plates is generally in the same direction as the convection currents.

D.) Tectonic plate motion is not related in any way to the mantle convection currents - This statement is false because there is a direct relationship between mantle convection currents and tectonic plate motion.