Plate Tectonics Explained — Types of Plate Boundaries, Mantle Convection, and Earth’s Dynamic Surface | Chapter 4 from Earth: Portrait of a Planet
Plate Tectonics Explained — Types of Plate Boundaries, Mantle Convection, and Earth’s Dynamic Surface | Chapter 4 from Earth: Portrait of a Planet How do the movements of massive tectonic plates shape our planet? Chapter 4 of Earth: Portrait of a Planet by Stephen Marshak unpacks the revolutionary theory of plate tectonics, revealing the processes that create earthquakes, volcanoes, mountain ranges, and ocean basins. To see these concepts brought to life, watch the chapter summary video on YouTube , or read below for a comprehensive breakdown. Introduction: The Unifying Theory of Plate Tectonics Plate tectonics stands as one of geology’s most important breakthroughs. It explains how Earth’s lithosphere—composed of about 20 rigid plates—moves over the ductile asthenosphere beneath. These movements shape the planet’s surface, drive geologic hazards, and help explain everything from mountain building to seafloor spreading. The Lithosphere and Asthenosphere The lithosphere is...