Tectonic Plates
The Earth's outermost layer, called the lithosphere, is broken into several large pieces known as tectonic plates. These plates are constantly moving, though very slowly, floating on the semi-fluid layer beneath them. When these plates collide, pull apart, or slide past each other, they can cause earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.
In the news
- Magnitude 7.0 Earthquake Strikes Tibet, Causing Fatalities and Injuries The Earth's outermost layer, called the lithosphere, is broken into several large pieces known as tectonic plates. These plates are constantly moving, though very slowly, floating on the semi-fluid layer beneath them. When these plates collide, pull apart, or slide past each other, they can cause earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.