Forces Responsible for Continental Drift
Many forces were responsible for the occurrence of continental drift theory. few of the major are given below and to note is that these forces are still active and responsible for the structural formation of the world landmasses in future.
- According to Wegener, the drift was in two directions:
- Towards the equator due to the interaction of forces of gravity, pole-fleeing force (due to centrifugal force caused by earth’s rotation), and buoyancy (ship floats in water due to buoyant force offered by water).
- Westwards due to tidal currents because of the earth’s motion (the earth rotates from west to east, so tidal currents act from east to west, according to Wegener).
- Wegener proposed that tidal forces, primarily influenced by the gravitational pull of the moon and, to a lesser extent, the sun, played a significant role in his continental drift theory.
- The polar-fleeing force is associated with the Earth’s rotation. Earth’s shape deviates from a perfect sphere, exhibiting a bulge at the equator induced by the planet’s rotation, which results in a greater centrifugal force at the equator.
- According to Wegener, the phenomenon of pole fleeing is attributed to the escalating centrifugal force experienced as one moves from the poles toward the equator. This increase in centrifugal force is a key element in Wegener’s explanation of continental drift.
- However, most of the scholars considered these forces to be insufficient.
Continental Drift Theory: Definition, Evidence, Limitations
The Continental Drift Theory proposes that Earth’s continents were once part of a single supercontinent called Pangaea, which later fragmented and drifted to their current positions over millions of years. This theory, initially proposed by Alfred Wegener, is supported by evidence such as matching coastlines, geological similarities, and fossil distribution across continents. The concept laid the foundation for the modern understanding of plate tectonics.
In this article, We have discussed the Continental Drift Theory and supporting evidence for the Drift Theory, and limitations of the theory, and many more.
Let’s dive right in.