The mechanism causing lithospheric plates to move is thought to be
A) convection in the mantle.
B) "slab pull" caused by subducting lithosphere.
C) tidal forces.
D) Earth's rotation.
E) a combination of convection in the mantle and "slab pull" caused by subducting lithosphere.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both convection in the mantle and "slab pull" caused by subducting lithosphere are believed to contribute to the movement of lithospheric plates. Convection currents in the mantle cause plates to move away from mid-ocean ridges, while "slab pull" occurs when a denser slab of lithosphere sinks into the mantle and pulls the rest of the plate behind it. Both processes work together to drive plate tectonics.

The Mechanism Causing Lithospheric Plates to Move Is Thought to Be