why is the plate tectonic theory accepted today over the continental drift theory? 1. the continenets nor the plates truly move. 2. all plates of earth's crust move, just not the landmasses. 3. the continents did move at one time but had moved back together. 4. The marsupial fossils found were not great evidence that Pangea once existed.
The correct answer is 2. all plates of earth's crust move, just not the landmasses.
The plate tectonic theory is widely accepted today over the continental drift theory because it provides a more comprehensive and accurate explanation of the movement of Earth's crust. The continental drift theory, proposed by Alfred Wegener in the early 20th century, suggested that continents drifted apart and merged together over time. However, it failed to provide a mechanism for how this movement occurred.
The plate tectonic theory, on the other hand, explains that Earth's lithosphere (the rigid outer layer of the planet) is divided into several large and small plates that are constantly moving. These plates interact at their boundaries, leading to various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and the formation of mountain ranges. This theory is supported by extensive geological and geophysical evidence, including the mapping of plate boundaries, seismic activity, and the distribution of rocks and fossils.
The marsupial fossils are actually considered as strong evidence supporting the concept of Pangea, the supercontinent that existed around 300 million years ago. Fossils of marsupials, which are predominantly found today in Australia and South America, have been discovered in both continents. This suggests that these animals were once part of a single landmass, which eventually split apart and carried them in different directions.