tectonic plate
/tɛkˈtɒnɪk plæt/ · tec.ton.ic plate
noun
- A large, rigid slab of the Earth's lithosphere that floats on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath it. The movement of tectonic plates is responsible for the creation of mountain ranges and earthquakes.
noun
- A section of the Earth's surface that is moving relative to other sections. The tectonic plate that North America is located on is moving northwestward at a rate of a few centimeters per year.
Did you know? The movement of tectonic plates is responsible for the creation of many of the Earth's most iconic landscapes, including the Grand Canyon and the Himalayan mountain range.