The earth's crust is divided into 12 large sections called tectonic plates. There are two types of plates - continental and oceanic. Continental plates contain the world's landmasses. They are older, lighter and thicker than oceanic plates.
Plates move as a result of convection currents in the mantel.
Plate margins Margin Description Hazard or feature Example Case Study Destructive Where an oceanic plate moves towards a continental plate. Because the oceanic plate is heavier it subducts under the continental plate. Volcanoes and earthquakes. Where two plates slide past each other. Where two continental plates move towards each other.