Plate tectonics A cross section showing convection currents in the mantle causing plate movements. (more) How Do Tectonic Plates Move? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/science/How-Do-Tectonic-Plates-Move Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written and fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Apr 8, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Scientists are still debating how tectonic plates move, but most of experts believe that the movement of plates is caused by the convection currents within the planet’s mantle. As heat in the Earth’s interior rises, it causes the mantle’s material to move in a circular pattern. This movement is likely what drives the tectonic plates, which sit on top of the mantle, above to shift. The heat source for these currents is believed to be the decay of radioactive elements deep within the Earth, creating a dynamic system that propels the plates across the planet’s surface. In addition to convection ...(100 of 204 words)

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