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Plate tectonics (from the Late Latin tectonicus, from the Greek: τεκτονικός "pertaining to building")[1] is a scientific theory that describes the large-scale motions of Earth's lithosphere. The theory builds on the concepts of continental drift, developed during the first decades of the 20th century. It was accepted by the geoscientific community after the concepts of seafloor spreading were developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s.Tectonic plates are composed of oceanic lithosphere and thicker continental lithosphere, each topped by its own kind of crust. Along convergent boundaries, subduction carries plates into the mantle; the material lost is roughly balanced by the formation of new (oceanic) crust along divergent margins by seafloor spreading. In this way, the total surface of the globe remains the same. This prediction of plate tectonics is also referred to as the conveyor belt principle. Earlier theories (that still have some supporters) proposed gradual shrinking (contraction) or gradual expansion of the globe.

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What is the theory that the lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates that move around?

That would be the theory of plate tectonics.


What is another name for the plate tectonic theory?

The Theory of Plate Tectonics?


What theory led to the plate tectonic theory?

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How did sonar contribute to the plate tectonic theory?

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What is the name of the theory that led to the development of the theory of plate tectonic?

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What Is the theory that the earths lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates that move around on top of the asthenosphere?

A theory that says the lithosphere is divided into plates that move around on top of the asthenosphere is called '' plate tectonics''


What does plate tectonic theory tell us?

Nothing, it's a theory, like evolution!


Who is credited with the plate tectonic theory?

The plate tectonic theory was primarily developed by Alfred Wegener in the early 20th century. He proposed the idea of continental drift, which later laid the foundation for our modern understanding of plate tectonics.


How does plate tectonic theory explains the distribution of mineral resources?

yes.


Who is considered the father o plate tectonic theory?

alfred wegner


What was the theory proposed before the plate tectonic theory list 2 evidence in support of the the former theory?

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Why is tectonic plate movement still called the theory of plate tectonic movement?

Tectonic plate movement is still considered a theory because it is a well-substantiated explanation based on evidence and scientific reasoning. In science, a theory is an explanation that has been thoroughly tested and supported by numerous observations and experiments, and the theory of plate tectonics has provided valuable insights into the Earth's geological processes.