What are tectonic plates?

Tectonic plates are indeed large pieces of Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other. The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, which includes the crust and the upper part of the mantle. These plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them, and their movements can lead to various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountains.

The interactions between tectonic plates occur at their boundaries, where they can diverge, converge, or slide past one another. This movement is driven by forces such as mantle convection, slab pull, and ridge push, making tectonic activity a critical factor in shaping the Earth's surface and influencing geological processes over time.

Understanding tectonic plates is fundamental to the study of geology and Earth science, as they play a crucial role in the dynamic nature of our planet.