Explain how convection currents in the mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates.

Heat is produced through the radioactive decay of elements in the inner core. This heats the lower mantle, causing the magma to become less dense and rise. Once it reaches the upper mantle it cools, becomes more dense and sinks. This process repeats forming convection currents throughout the mantle which are strong enough to drive plate movement of a few centimeters per year.

Answered by Kat G. Geography tutor

6210 Views

See similar Geography GCSE tutors

Related Geography GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe and explain the formation of a gorge - 6 marks


How do I boost my marks in an extended answer question based on a source?


Explain the formation of meanders (4)


What are the characteristics of oceanic crust?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences