Continental drift
- Pronunciation
- /kon-tin-en-tal drifft/
- Category
- geology
Definition
The theory that continents have moved over time, separating from a single supercontinent called Pangaea.
Etymology
From the Latin words 'continentes' meaning 'continents' and 'drift', referring to the movement of landmasses.
Example
The theory of continental drift was proposed by Alfred Wegener based on evidence from geological formations and fossil distributions.
Related Terms
- Pangaea
- Plate tectonics
- Seafloor spreading