briefly explain how the continents move
Briefly explain how the continents move
Answer:
The movement of continents is explained by the theory of plate tectonics. This theory suggests that the Earth’s outer shell is divided into several plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere layer beneath them. The continents are part of these plates, and their movement is driven by the heat generated from the Earth’s core.
There are primarily two types of movement: divergent boundaries where plates move apart, convergent boundaries where plates collide, and transform boundaries where plates slide past each other. The interaction of these plate boundaries causes various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain formation.
Continental drift is a significant part of this movement, where the continents drift on the Earth’s surface due to the movement of these plates. This movement has led to the current positions of the continents and the formation of various landforms over millions of years.