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AssignmentMultiple Choice

Convection and Mantle

Question 1 • WV-Earth and Space Science A-CR

Which statement best reflects what is known about the theory of plate tectonics?

Answer
A
Earth's lithosphere is composed of about five large plates and a few smaller plates that move across Earth's surface a few meters a year.
B
Earth's lithosphere is composed of dozens of plates that move across Earth's surface a few kilometers a year.
C
Earth's lithosphere is composed of hundreds of plates that move across Earth's surface a few centimeters a year.
D
Earth's lithosphere is composed of about a dozen large plates and a few smaller plates that move across Earth's surface a few centimeters a year.

Explanation

Earth’s lithosphere is divided into roughly a dozen major plates, along with several smaller ones. These plates move slowly—typically a few centimeters per year—so the statement describing about a dozen large plates and a few smaller plates is the best match. The other choices give an inaccurate number of plates or an unrealistic movement rate.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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