The theory of plate tectonics has retained this simple threefold division, but new research has suggested that the crust and the upper mantle should be divides into the lithosphere and the asthenosphere.
Lithosphere = crust and rigid upper section of the mantle + = approx 80-90km thick.
It is divided into seven very large plates and a number of smaller ones.
Plates = divided into 2 catagories: oceanic + continental => depending on the material from which they are made.
Below lithosphere = semi-molten asthenosphere, on which the plates float + move.
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