Plate tectonics refers to the theory that the Earth's crust is composed of large rigid plates that slowly move over the mantle. There are 7 major and many minor tectonic plates that are constantly changing through processes like combining, becoming crushed, or being subducted beneath another plate. When the plates shift it can cause earthquakes, tsunamis, elevation changes to land, and structural damage costing lives and property. Scientists are working to better predict plate shifts but preparing for possible impacts through building codes and emergency plans is currently the best approach.

1. Plate Tectonics
Charlotte Lutz Geography 101

2. Plate Tectonics
Is a theory explaining the structure of the
earth's crust and many associated phenomena
resulting from the interaction of rigid
lithospheric plates that move slowly over the
underlying mantle

4. About Tectonic Plates
There are 7 major plates and many more minor plates.
There are also Micro plates located world wide.
Plates are grouped according to area (size)
They are ever changing since over time they:
Combine
Become crushed
become subducted.

5. Problems...
The shifts in tectonic plates occur at random. Scientists
known as seismologists, work to find a way to predict
shifts of plates. Though it is not completely understood
we do know that weather and digging have effects on
shifts. A shift is caused Shifts occur in one of 4 ways.

6. Convergent
→←
Divergent
← →
Subduction Transform
↖↘→l

7. How It affects us...
When tectonic plates shift generally we feel and if at the right place at
the right (?) time you can see it. We refer to these shifts as “Earthquakes”
Large shifts result in:
Structural Damage
Fissures in land
Tsunamis
Elevation change (Higher or Lower)
Loss of Life
Loss of water, power, homes, and $$$

9. What we can do
Have stricter construction codes
Limit oil drilling and digging
Scientists are currently working on early
warning systems that could give us a few
seconds notice but the best advice....
Prepare! Prepare! Prepare!