The term for the movement of the Earth's plates is "plate tectonics." This scientific theory explains how the Earth's lithosphere is divided into several plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath. These tectonic plates can move past, collide with, or pull apart from one another, resulting in geological events such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of mountains. The movement occurs due to convective currents in the mantle, driven by heat from the Earth's core. Understanding plate tectonics is crucial for comprehending the geological history of our planet as well as predicting future activity.