\begin{tabular}{l} 16. How does what we learned about earthquakes and volcanoes help us explain how the continents could have moved over \\ time? \\ \hline\end{tabular}

The study of earthquakes and volcanoes reveals the dynamic nature of Earth's crust, which is divided into tectonic plates. These plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere, and their movements and interactions can cause significant geological activity. By examining the patterns of seismic activity and volcanic eruptions, scientists have gained insights into how these plates shift, collide, and drift apart, providing a clear explanation for the movement of continents over millions of years. Additionally, the concept of continental drift, proposed by Alfred Wegener, is supported by the evidence from plate tectonics. The alignment of mountain ranges, fossil distribution, and similarities in geological formations across different continents all point toward a historical connection. Understanding these processes not only clarifies how continents were once joined but also emphasizes the ongoing nature of Earth's evolution, with new landscapes being formed and transformed over time.