What scientific theory replaced the initial continental drift theory and provided a mechanism for how continents move?

Question: What scientific theory replaced the initial continental drift theory and provided a mechanism for how continents move?

The scientific theory that replaced the initial continental drift theory and provided a mechanism for how continents move is called plate tectonics.

Plate tectonics is a scientific theory that describes the large-scale motion of seven major plates and a number of minor plates of the Earth's lithosphere, as the result of convection currents in the mantle. The model builds on the concept of continental drift, which was originally proposed in the early 20th century.

Plate tectonics explains how the continents move by proposing that the Earth's lithosphere is broken into a number of plates that are constantly moving and interacting with each other. These plates can move in different directions and at different speeds, which can lead to a variety of geological phenomena, such as the formation of mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes.

The theory of plate tectonics was developed in the 1960s and 1970s, and it was based on a number of new lines of evidence, including the discovery of the mid-ocean ridge system, the distribution of earthquakes and volcanoes, and the magnetic patterns of the ocean floor.

Plate tectonics has revolutionized the Earth sciences, and it is now one of the most well-accepted theories in geology. It is used to explain a wide range of geological phenomena, including the formation of mountain ranges, volcanoes, and earthquakes.

Here is a brief overview of the three main types of plate boundaries:

• Convergent boundaries: At convergent boundaries, two plates collide with each other. This can lead to the formation of mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes.
• Divergent boundaries: At divergent boundaries, two plates move away from each other. This can lead to the formation of mid-ocean ridges and earthquakes.
• Transform boundaries: At transform boundaries, two plates slide past each other. This can lead to earthquakes and the formation of faults.

Plate tectonics is a complex and fascinating field of study, and it continues to be an area of active research.