Tectonic Plates

Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Geology/Geography and other Earthquake topics.

What is plate tectonics?

Tectonic Plates

This is a theory that unifies many the characteristics and features of Continental Drift. This theory holds that the Lithospere is divided into about 7 major plates with (to the best of our knowledge) 12 smaller ones roughly 60 miles thick, which rest on a soft layer called the asthenosphere. The 25 mile thick continents are embedded within some of these plates, the rest are along the ocean floor.
What moves them is still unknown.

   

Comments

9/12/2007 6:58:20 AM
matt said:

try saying wat the plates are like the 7 major plates!




Name:


URL: (optional)


Comment:


Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Earthquake Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Lynne Christen