The theory of plate tectonics was developed by alfred wagner in 1912. the theory of plate tectonics was developed to explain various geologic activities, such as continental drift, volcanos, earthquakes, and the formation of islands. the theory hypothesises that the earth's crust is made up of tectonic plates that move around and interact with eachother. these aformentioned interactions are what cause volcanoes, earthquakes, continental drift and islands to form. the theory classifies the boundries in several ways; as divergent boundries, as convergent boundries, and as transform boundries.
Divergent Boundries:
A divergent boundrie is when two tectonic plates are forced apart by magma. as the magma bubbles up, it cools, and forms new land.
Convergent Boundries:
--Subduction Zone
where one plate is forced under the other. as it goes under, the edge of plate melts and forces it's way up though the "opposing" plate and forms volcanes or islands.
--orogenesis
(mountain building)
where one plate is forced up over the other, forming mountains or islands.
Transform Boundry:
where two plates grind against each other, creating friction. along the boundry it builds up energy, untill the friction cannot contain it any longer. then the energy is released, creating earthquakes.
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