Tectonic plates on Earth's surface move due to the process of plate tectonics. This movement is a result of the convective currents in the Earth's mantle. The Earth's interior is comprised of multiple layers, including the core, mantle, and crust. The solid outermost layer, known as the lithosphere, is divided into several large and small pieces called tectonic plates.
Beneath the lithosphere lies the partially molten asthenosphere, which is responsible for the convective currents. Heat from the Earth's core causes these currents to circulate, generating a slow convection motion within the asthenosphere. These convection currents cause the movement of the tectonic plates on the surface.
The movement of the plates can be of three types: convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries. At convergent boundaries, two plates collide, causing one plate to be forced beneath the other in a process called subduction. This can lead to the formation of mountain ranges, volcanic activity, and earthquakes.
At divergent boundaries, two plates move apart from each other, creating a gap that is filled with magma from below. As the magma cools and solidifies, new crust is formed, resulting in the creation of oceanic ridges or rift valleys.
Transform boundaries occur when two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally. This movement often results in the release of built-up stress in the form of earthquakes.
Overall, the movement of tectonic plates is driven by the convective currents in the Earth's mantle, causing the tectonic plates to constantly shift and reshape the Earth's surface.
Why do tectonic plates on earths surface move
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