The geographical term that describes the theory of continental drift is known as plate tectonics. This theory posits that the Earth's outer shell is divided into several plates that glide over the mantle, leading to the movement of continents over geological time. The concept, initially proposed by Alfred Wegener, has been fundamental in explaining the formation of continents, ocean basins, and earthquake activity. Plate tectonics continues to be a crucial area of research in understanding Earth's geological processes.