Theory of Plate Tectonics. Concept & Explanation.
A] What are Plates in geographical term? Plates are hard and rigid segments of lithosphere including the rigid upper part of mantle and oceanic-continental crust that floats on the underlying asthenosphere. The lithospheric plates move over the plastic asthenosphere under the influence of thermal convective currents. Thermal convection currents are nothing but radio energy which is created by radio-active decaying of rocks inside the core. The movement of crustal plates cause pressure and tensions upon the rock, leading to deformation of land surface. Further, these plate movements cause seismicity, volcanicity, occurrence of various landforms, formation of mountains, etc. B] What is Plate Tectonics Theory? Plate tectonics theory is majorly based on two scientific concepts- Continental Drift and Sea-floor Spreading. Plate tectonics theory is a comprehensive scientific theory describing large-scale motion of tectonic plates of Earth's lithosphere over the Asthenosphere. The ...