Which evidence does not support the 'Plate Tectonic Theory' ?

The correct answer is 'Similar drainage system'

Key Points

• Similar drainage system:
  • The similarity of drainage systems is not considered direct evidence for Plate Tectonic Theory.
  • Drainage patterns and systems are primarily influenced by surface processes and local geomorphology, such as the topography, underlying rock type, and climatic conditions of a region.
  • While the movement of tectonic plates can indirectly affect drainage systems by altering topography over geological timescales, these are not primary pieces of evidence used to support Plate Tectonic Theory.

Additional Information

• Jig-Saw Fit:
  • The "Jig-Saw Fit" refers to the observation that the continents seem to fit together like pieces of a puzzle, particularly the coastlines of South America and Africa.
  • This observation supports the idea of continental drift, a precursor to Plate Tectonic Theory, suggesting that continents were once joined together and have since drifted apart.
• Sea floor spreading:
  • Sea floor spreading is a key evidence for the Plate Tectonic Theory. It involves the creation of new oceanic crust at mid-ocean ridges and its outward movement on either side.
  • This process demonstrates that tectonic plates are moving apart and provides a mechanism for the movement of the plates.
• Similar Rock System:
  • Similar rock systems found on different continents support Plate Tectonic Theory by indicating that these continents were once part of a larger landmass.
  • For example, the Appalachian Mountains in North America and the Caledonian Mountains in Scotland and Scandinavia have similar rock types and ages, indicating they were formed during the same geological periods before the continents drifted apart.

Important Points

• Plate Tectonic Theory explains the movement of the Earth's lithospheric plates and accounts for phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and mountain building.
• Evidence supporting Plate Tectonic Theory includes observations from geology, paleontology, seismology, and oceanography, merging many scientific disciplines to provide a comprehensive understanding of Earth's dynamic nature.
• Understanding which types of evidence support Plate Tectonic Theory is crucial for geological sciences and helps explain the current and historical configurations of Earth's continents and ocean basins.