The theory used to explain continental drift is known as the theory of plate tectonics. This theory suggests that the Earth's lithosphere, which is composed of several large and small plates, is constantly in motion. These plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere below and interact with each other at their boundaries.

The concept of continental drift was initially proposed by Alfred Wegener in the early 20th century. He observed that the coastlines of certain continents, such as South America and Africa, seemed to fit together like puzzle pieces. Wegener hypothesized that these continents were once part of a single supercontinent called Pangaea, which later broke apart and drifted to their current positions.

Plate tectonics, as a scientific theory, has further developed Wegener's ideas and provided a comprehensive explanation for the mechanism behind continental drift. According to this theory, the Earth's lithosphere is divided into several major plates, including the Eurasian, African, and Pacific plates, among others.

There are three main types of plate boundaries: divergent, convergent, and transform boundaries. At divergent boundaries, plates move apart from each other, allowing magma to rise from the mantle and create new crust. This process occurs primarily along mid-ocean ridges, where new oceanic crust is formed.

Convergent boundaries, on the other hand, involve plates colliding with each other. Depending on the types of plates involved, different geological features can be formed, such as mountains, volcanoes, or oceanic trenches. The collision of two continental plates can give rise to the formation of large mountain ranges like the Himalayas.

Transform boundaries occur when plates slide past each other horizontally. These boundaries are characterized by frequent earthquakes, as the plates often get stuck due to friction and then suddenly release energy when they finally slip past each other.

In conclusion, the theory of plate tectonics provides the framework to explain continental drift. It demonstrates how the Earth's lithosphere is divided into several plates that interact at their boundaries. Through the movement of these plates at divergent, convergent, and transform boundaries, continents have drifted apart and continue to do so, shaping the Earth's geography and contributing to various geological phenomena.

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