Tectonic plates are large, rigid pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them. They vary in density, with continental plates typically being less dense and thicker due to their composition of lighter materials like granite, while oceanic plates are denser and thinner, primarily composed of basalt. This difference in density is a key factor in plate interactions, leading to phenomena such as subduction, where denser oceanic plates sink beneath lighter continental plates.
The edges where tectonic plates meet are called "plate boundaries." There are three main types of plate boundaries: divergent, where plates move apart; convergent, where plates collide; and transform, where plates slide past each other. Each type of boundary is associated with different geological activities, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.
They are called tectonic or lithospheric plates.
there are 7 huge plates but dozens of smaller plates
Continental plates are tectonic plates. They are tectonic plates upon which continents rest, and they move as do all tectonic plates. Basically, there is no difference, other than the fact that oceanic plates are another type of tectonic plate.
Additionally, convection currents in the mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates. This convection occurs as molten rock rises and cools, creating a continuous cycle of movement beneath the Earth's surface.
Density plays a key role in plate tectonics by influencing the movement of tectonic plates. Plates with higher density tend to sink into the mantle at subduction zones, while plates with lower density float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere, driving processes like seafloor spreading and continental drift. Overall, density variations in the Earth's lithosphere help drive the movement of tectonic plates.
The edges where tectonic plates meet are called "plate boundaries." There are three main types of plate boundaries: divergent, where plates move apart; convergent, where plates collide; and transform, where plates slide past each other. Each type of boundary is associated with different geological activities, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.
mantle convection
They are called tectonic or lithospheric plates.
Tectonic plates and fault lines created by the movement of tectonic plates.
Tectonic plates are also "Continental Crust" and "Oceanic Crust". Also lithospheric plates.
Yes, tectonic plates are also known as crustal plates.
harry hess named the tectonic plates but I'm not sure why =/
there are 7 huge plates but dozens of smaller plates
Continental plates are tectonic plates. They are tectonic plates upon which continents rest, and they move as do all tectonic plates. Basically, there is no difference, other than the fact that oceanic plates are another type of tectonic plate.
No the tectonic plates are on top of the crust.
The tectonic plates float on the lithosphere. This overlies the asthenosphere.