File:Plates tect2 nl.svg

English: The key principle of plate tectonics is that the lithosphere exists as separate and distinct tectonic plates, which float on the fluid-like (visco-elastic solid) asthenosphere. The relative fluidity of the asthenosphere allows the tectonic plates to undergo motion in different directions. Note: That the Indian and Australian plate aren't separated; they are together forming the Indo-Australian Plate

  * 1 Synopsis on development
  * 2 Key principles
  * 3 Types of plate boundaries
        o 3.1 Transform (conservative) boundaries
        o 3.2 Divergent (constructive) boundaries
        o 3.3 Convergent (destructive) boundaries
  * 4 Driving forces of plate motion
        o 4.1 Friction
        o 4.2 Gravitation
        o 4.3 External forces
        o 4.4 Relative significance of each mechanism
  * 5 Major plates
        o 5.1 Continental drift
        o 5.2 Floating continents
        o 5.3 Plate tectonic theory
              + 5.3.1 Explanation of magnetic striping
              + 5.3.2 Subduction discovered
              + 5.3.3 Mapping with earthquakes
        o 5.4 Geological paradigm shift
  * 6 Biogeographic implications on fauna and flora
  * 7 Plate tectonics on other planets
  * 8 Metaphoric uses
  * 9 See also
  * 10 References

* 11 External links