Geology of North America: the North American Plate

The video explains the concept of tectonic plates, focusing on the North American plate. It describes how these plates, which are like the skin of an apple in thickness, move and interact over time, causing geological processes such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The North American plate includes both land and parts of the Atlantic Ocean floor. Despite being imperceptible, the plate moves at a rate similar to fingernail growth. The video concludes with a discussion on how these movements have shaped the continent.

What is the average thickness of tectonic plates?

How does the thickness of tectonic plates compare to the skin of an apple?

What geographical features does the North American plate include?

What geological processes are influenced by the movement of tectonic plates?

At what rate is the North American plate estimated to be moving?