The main ideas of the Plate Tectonics Theory are:

• Lithosphere and Asthenosphere: The Earth has an outer layer called the lithosphere. This layer is broken into tectonic plates. These plates float on a thicker, gooey layer below called the asthenosphere.

• Plate Movement: The tectonic plates move because of currents in the mantle, which is the layer beneath the lithosphere. This movement can cause different activities related to the Earth’s surface.

• Types of Plate Boundaries:

  • Divergent: This is when plates move apart, and new crust is formed. An example of this is mid-ocean ridges.
  • Convergent: Here, plates push into each other. This can lead to one plate sliding under another, or it can create mountains. A famous example is the Himalayas.
  • Transform: In this case, plates slide past one another. This movement can cause earthquakes. The San Andreas Fault is a well-known example.

All of these interactions help shape the Earth’s surface. They are responsible for creating mountains, causing earthquakes, and forming volcanoes!