Answer:
The continental drift theory refers to the movement of the continents over the ocean body from one place to another with respect to the poles.
Explanation:
The continental drift concept was first put forward by Alfred Wegener where he explained that the continents move over the ocean surface from time to time with respect to a fixed point (poles). He gave many pieces of evidence in support of this theory but he was unable to explain the main mechanism behind this motion of continents. This theory was later modified into a simple, universally accepted theory, commonly known as the Plate tectonic theory that was able to explain the mechanism behind this continental motion.
Further explanation:
Alfred Wegener gave various pieces of evidence such as the matching of the continental margins, finding similar fossil assemblages in separated continents, and also similar rock types and rock sequences were observed that supported the continental drift theory.
The earth's lithosphere is divided into numerous small and large size of plates that shares either of the three plate boundaries such as the divergent, convergent and transform boundary.
According to the plate tectonic theory which came later, the lithospheric plates constantly move over the less viscous layer of the Asthenosphere due to the formation of convection current in the mantle. It forms because of the heat energy radiated from the interior of the earth.
These types of plate motions are responsible for the formation of high mountain ranges and ocean bodies.
The seafloor spreading concept played an essential role in understanding the continental drift theory that eventually led to the discovery of Plate tectonic theory. Seafloor spreading refers to the addition of new materials to the crust along the mid-oceanic ridge as the magma forces to come out on the surface of the ocean floor.
This theory helped in determining that the earth was initially comprised of a single, large, continental landmass that was named the Pangea (about 250 million years ago) which slowly got split into the present day scenario.
Learn more:
1. Alfred Wegener's Continental Drift Theory brainly.com/question/7350119 ( Camlee5 )
2. Continental drift brainly.com/question/9836971 ( Officialmanuell )
Keywords:
Continental drift, Lithosphere, Asthenosphere, Convection current, Seafloor spreading, Mid-oceanic ridge, Plate tectonic theory.
