Which of the following is consistent with the plate tectonic theory?

Which of the following is consistent with the plate tectonic theory?

A. Lithosphere convection drives mantle movement.

B. As a plate sinks into the asthenosphere, it pulls the trailing plate along.

C. Lunar tidal forces drive
continental movement.

D. Gravity-driven "ridge push" moves plates at convergent plate boundaries.

E.
Convection driven by cool rocks rising in the mantle moves the overlying lithosphere.

The answer is: E. Convection driven by cool rocks rising in the mantle moves the overlying lithosphere.

This is consistent with the plate tectonic theory because it explains how the movement of the mantle can drive the movement of the lithosphere (the Earth's crust and uppermost part of the mantle), leading to the motion of tectonic plates. Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of a fluid, and in this case, cool rocks sinking and warm rocks rising in the mantle create convection currents that move the plates above them.

To determine which of the options is consistent with the plate tectonic theory, we need to understand the basic principles of plate tectonics and how they relate to each option.

The plate tectonic theory explains the large-scale movements of the Earth's lithosphere, which is the outermost rigid layer consisting of the crust and part of the upper mantle. According to this theory, the lithosphere is divided into several large and numerous smaller plates that float and move on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath.

Option A states that "Lithosphere convection drives mantle movement." This option is consistent with the plate tectonic theory. Convection currents in the mantle, caused by the uneven distribution of heat, are believed to be responsible for moving the lithospheric plates.

Option B states that "As a plate sinks into the asthenosphere, it pulls the trailing plate along." This concept, known as slab pull, is also consistent with the plate tectonic theory. As one lithospheric plate subducts or sinks beneath another, it can exert a pulling force on the trailing plate.

Option C states that "Lunar tidal forces drive continental movement." Lunar tidal forces, which are caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon on the Earth, do influence ocean tides. However, they do not play a significant role in driving continental movement, so this option is not consistent with the plate tectonic theory.

Option D states that "Gravity-driven 'ridge push' moves plates at convergent plate boundaries." Ridge push is a concept consistent with the plate tectonic theory. It suggests that the force of gravity acting on the elevated mid-oceanic ridges can drive the movement of the lithospheric plates away from the ridge.

Option E states that "Convection driven by cool rocks rising in the mantle moves the overlying lithosphere." This statement is a variation of the concept mentioned in option A, where convection currents driven by the movement of cool rocks in the mantle cause the movement of the overlying lithosphere. Therefore, this option is also consistent with the plate tectonic theory.

In summary, options A, B, D, and E are consistent with the plate tectonic theory, while option C is not.

Convection driven by cool rocks rising in the mantle moves the overlying lithosphere.