Discuss at least three different lines of evidence that support the theory of plate movement . In your answer , explain how each type of evidence helps scientists understand that the continents and oceans floor are constantly moving
Answer (1)
Three main lines of evidence that support the theory of plate movement are fossil evidence, fit of the continents, and seafloor spreading.Explanation1. Fossil EvidenceIdentical plant and animal fossils, such as Mesosaurus and Glossopteris, have been found on continents that are now far apart, like South America and Africa. This suggests that these continents were once connected, allowing species to live in the same region before the plates drifted apart.2. Fit of the ContinentsThe shapes of continents, especially the coastlines of South America and Africa, appear to fit together like puzzle pieces. This supports the idea that they were once part of a single large landmass (Pangaea) and have since moved to their current positions due to plate movement.3. Seafloor SpreadingStudies of the mid-ocean ridges show that new crust is forming as magma rises and solidifies, pushing older crust outward. This process explains how ocean floors slowly spread apart and how continents are carried along with the moving plates.Together, these pieces of evidence show that Earth’s lithosphere is not fixed—it is constantly moving, reshaping continents and ocean basins over millions of years.
