What is a long-term effect of plate tectonics on Earth's surface?

The gradual formation and destruction of mountains and ocean basins directly reflects the dynamic nature of plate tectonics, which is driven by the movement of tectonic plates on the Earth's surface. Over long periods, these movements lead to significant geological changes. For instance, when tectonic plates converge, they can cause the Earth's crust to fold and buckle, resulting in the creation of mountain ranges such as the Himalayas. Conversely, when plates diverge, they can create rift valleys or ocean basins, as seen at mid-ocean ridges where new oceanic crust forms as magma rises to the surface.

This process is not instantaneous; rather, it occurs over millions of years, leading to the continuous reshaping of the Earth’s landscape. It underlines the idea that the Earth's surface is in constant flux due to these tectonic activities, fundamentally influencing ecosystems and geographical features. Therefore, the gradual nature of mountain and ocean basin formation accurately encapsulates the long-term effects of plate tectonics on Earth's surface.