The geological process that refers to the movement of tectonic plates is known as "plate tectonics." This process explains the large-scale motions of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into several rigid plates. These plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them and interact at their boundaries, leading to various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountains. The theory of plate tectonics also helps understand continental drift, the creation of ocean basins, and the history of Earth's geological formations. It is a cornerstone of modern geology, synthesizing observations from multiple scientific disciplines.