What does the term "Continental Drift" refer to?

The term "Continental Drift" specifically refers to the concept that the continents were once connected as a single landmass, known as Pangaea, and have since drifted apart to their current positions over geological time. This idea, first proposed by Alfred Wegener in the early 20th century, suggests that the movement of continents is driven by tectonic processes beneath the Earth's surface. The recognition of Continental Drift laid the foundation for the broader theory of plate tectonics, which explains not only the movement of continents but also the interactions between the Earth's lithospheric plates. This theory has been supported by various lines of evidence, including fossil distributions, geological similarities across continents, and the alignment of mountain ranges.

In contrast, other options refer to different concepts. For instance, while the movement of tectonic plates is related to the mechanism behind continental drift, it does not specifically define the term. The theory on ocean currents and the process of erosion in landforms are unrelated concepts that do not address the idea of continents shifting positions.