Lithosphere divided into tectonic plates from "summary" of Principles of Geology, Volume 1 by Charles Lyell,Sir Charles Lyell
The lithosphere, or outer layer of the Earth, is not a continuous mass of rock but is instead divided into several large and small sections known as tectonic plates. These plates float on the semi-fluid layer beneath them, known as the asthenosphere, and are in constant motion relative to one another. This movement is driven by the heat generated within the Earth's interior, which causes the molten rock to circulate and create convection currents. The boundaries between tectonic plates are characterized by intense geologic activity, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of mountain ranges. There are three main types of plate boundaries: divergent boundaries, where plates move away from each other; convergent boundaries, where plates collide and one is forced beneath the other; and transform boundaries, where plates slide past each other horizontally. At divergent boundaries, new crust is form...
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