Which widely known modern theory evolved from the concept of continental drift?

The theory of plate tectonics evolved from the earlier concept of continental drift, which was proposed by Alfred Wegener in the early 20th century. Continental drift suggested that continents were once joined together in a single landmass (Pangaea) and have since drifted apart. Plate tectonics expanded on this idea by providing a comprehensive framework that explains the movements of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates.

These tectonic plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them and interact at their boundaries, leading to phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the creation of mountain ranges. The theory incorporates not only the movement of continents but also the processes occurring at mid-ocean ridges and the formation of ocean basins, making it a foundational concept in geology and Earth science.

Other options, while related to geological concepts, do not directly stem from the theory of continental drift in the way plate tectonics does. Geocentrism, for instance, pertains to an astronomical model that places the Earth at the center of the universe and is unrelated to continental movement. Continental shelf theory deals specifically with the submerged landmass surrounding continents and doesn’t encompass the broader dynamics of plate movement. Seafloor spreading describes the process that