Which statement best explains the theory of plate tectonics?(1 point)
Responses
Earth’s mantle is made of rock plates that move across the crust.
Earth’s mantle is made of rock plates that move across the crust.
Earth’s crust is composed of rock plates that float on top of the mantle.
Earth’s crust is composed of rock plates that float on top of the mantle.
Earth’s crust is formed by the magma that rises in the mantle.
Earth’s crust is formed by the magma that rises in the mantle.
Earth’s core consists of rock plates that float on top of the mantle.
The statement that best explains the theory of plate tectonics is: "Earth’s crust is composed of rock plates that float on top of the mantle."
To understand the theory of plate tectonics, we need to know that the Earth's outer layer, called the lithosphere, is divided into several large and small pieces known as tectonic plates. These plates are made up of solid rock and can be thought of as puzzle pieces that fit together to form the Earth's surface.
The lithosphere, including these tectonic plates, floats on the semi-fluid layer below it, known as the asthenosphere. This layer consists of hot, weak rock that allows the tectonic plates to move slowly over time.
The movement of these plates is responsible for various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountains and oceanic trenches. The theory of plate tectonics explains how these plates interact with each other at their boundaries, which can be either convergent (colliding), divergent (moving apart), or transform (sliding past each other).
Therefore, the statement that Earth’s crust is composed of rock plates that float on top of the mantle is the most accurate description of the theory of plate tectonics.