Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
continental plates
noun
/ˌkɒn.tɪˈnen.təl pleɪts/
Definition
Large sections of the Earth’s crust that move and interact with one another.
Examples
- The movement of continental plates can cause earthquakes.
- Mountains are often formed at the boundaries of colliding continental plates.
- Scientists study continental plates to understand the history of the Earth.
Meaning
Continental plates are tectonic plates that form the landmasses of the continents. They float on the semi-fluid layer of the mantle below and can shift over time due to geological processes.
Synonyms
- tectonic plates
- geological plates
