The formation of the continents is a fascinating process that took place over millions of years. The theory of plate tectonics gives us an explanation for this development. Accordingly, the earth consists of various tectonic plates that float on the liquid mantle. Due to convection currents in the mantle, these plates move slowly, colliding, separating, or sliding past one another.
The formation of the continents is closely linked to plate tectonics. In a process called continental drift, continents have moved and changed positions over time. About 300 million years ago they formed a single supercontinent called Pangea. Due to the movement of the tectonic plates, Pangea split and the continents drifted apart.
This process continues to this day. New ocean basins form as plates move apart and magma rises from the Earth's mantle to fill the resulting fissure. At the same time, some plates collide with each other, creating mountain ranges like the Himalayas.
The formation of the continents is therefore a dynamic process driven by the movement of the tectonic plates. Through him, today's continents have developed in their position and shape in the course of the earth's history.