Which phenomenon is primarily explained by plate tectonics?

The movement of continents and seismic activity is fundamentally explained by the theory of plate tectonics, which describes the large-scale movements of Earth's lithosphere. This theory posits that the Earth's outer shell is divided into several plates that glide over the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath. The interactions at the boundaries of these tectonic plates lead to various geological phenomena, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.

Additionally, the slow movement of these plates can cause the continents to drift over geological time, which is evidenced by the fit of continental margins and the distribution of similar fossils and rock types across different continents. Thus, the connection between plate tectonics and both the movement of continents and seismic activity is well established and is a crucial aspect of understanding Earth’s geological history and dynamic processes.

In contrast, the formation of weather patterns relates more to atmospheric science and meteorology, while the cycle of water in the environment involves hydrology and does not directly pertain to geological plate movements. The processes of photosynthesis in plants are governed by biological and chemical processes, not geological ones, further distinguishing them from the effects explained by plate tectonics.