Intraplate Deformation

Does tectonic motion occur away from plate boundaries?

The answer is yes. The lithosphere—that rigid upper layer of the Earth—can deform far from plate boundaries. This motion may result from the push or pull of distant plate boundaries (Figure 1), from the formation of new plate boundaries, or from the upward push of "hotspots" like Hawaii or Yellowstone (Figure 2). This kind of deformation is called intraplate deformation, because it happens within the plate.

Figure 1.Circles show the location of earthquakes in the eastern U.S.; the circle size represents the magnitude of the earthquake. Intraplate seismicity may result from motion along old plate boundaries, or failed plate boundaries, that remain weaker than the crust around them. (Credit: USGS)

Circles show the location of earthquakes in the eastern U.S.; the circle size represents the magnitude of the earthquake. Intraplate seismicity may result from motion along old plate boundaries, or failed plate boundaries, that remain weaker than the crust around them. (Credit: USGS)

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Figure 2.Major hotspots of the world. Hotspots are upwellings of hot, buoyant material from deep within the Earth.

Major hotspots of the world. Hotspots are upwellings of hot, buoyant material from deep within the Earth.

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