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 formed by the magma that rises in the mantle.
Earth’s crust is formed by the magma that rises in the mantle.
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 core consists 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.
The correct 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.
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 why this statement is the best explanation for plate tectonics, we need to define what plate tectonics is. Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that describes the large-scale movements of Earth's lithosphere, which is made up of the crust and the upper part of the mantle.
The Earth's crust is not a solid, continuous piece, but rather it is broken up into several large and small plates that fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. These plates can move relative to each other. The movement is driven by convection currents in the underlying mantle, which is a semi-solid layer beneath the crust.
The statement that the Earth's crust is composed of rock plates that float on top of the mantle accurately describes this concept. The lithospheric plates are made up of solid rock materials, and they are not fixed in place but are instead in constant motion. They move, collide, and interact with each other along their boundaries. This movement is what causes various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.
Therefore, the statement "Earth’s crust is composed of rock plates that float on top of the mantle" provides the best explanation for the theory of plate tectonics.