At what rate do tectonic plates typically move?

Tectonic plates typically move at a rate of 1 to 6 centimeters per year. This movement is driven by the heat and convection currents in the Earth's mantle, which cause the plates to slide over the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them. The rate of movement can vary depending on the specific tectonic boundary and geological conditions, but the average is usually within this range.

Movements at this rate can lead to significant geological events over long periods, such as the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and the creation of ocean basins. Understanding the typical rates of plate movement is crucial for predicting geological activity and for studying the history of Earth's geological changes.