What is the rate of movement of tectonic plate boundaries?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. 1-2 inch per year.
Tectonic plate boundaries typically move at a rate of 1–2 inches per year, which equals about 2.5 to 5 centimeters annually. This slow movement is driven by convection currents in Earth’s mantle, causing plates to shift over time. Despite the gradual pace, these movements lead to significant geological changes such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain formation. The fastest-moving boundaries, like the East Pacific Rise, can exceed this average, while others move more slowly. Scientists use GPS technology and magnetic data from ocean floors to measure these shifts precisely, helping us understand Earth's dynamic crust and predict seismic activity.