PLATE TECTONICS Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that explains how the Earth’s outer shell is divided into large plates that move over the mantle. Their movements create earthquakes, build mountains, and form volcanoes, shaping the surface of our planet. Understanding plate tectonics helps us make sense of Earth’s past and prepare for natural hazards in the future. Follow Geomark Geoscience Education for more fascinating geological insights and discoveries. #Geology #EarthScience #PlateT

The continents and ocean basins are in constant motion due to plate tectonics. This animation shows the plate tectonic evolution of the Earth during the last 540 million years. Modern countries are shown in shads of brown and tan. The age of the ocean floor is show in colors that range from blue (oldest) to red (youngest). The age in millions of years is shown in the upper left-hand corner of the screen. The geologic period is shown in the lower left-hand corner of the screen. Text and animation

These animations illustrate several key elements of plate tectonics and show examples of how Earth's tectonic plates have moved over time. Watch Pangea split apart and form the modern continents, see mountains form in western North America and watch India collide with Asia. Animations created by Christopher R. Scotese, PALEOMAP Project/Northwestern University, and Ben A. van der Pluijm, University of Michigan. Read more about plate tectonics here: https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/