The global movement of tectonic plates has a significant impact on the shape of our planet. Recent studies have revealed that these plate movements not only contribute to the formation of mountains but also play a role in the creation of valleys. Many important valley formations can be observed at the boundaries of mountains, like the Himalayas. Additionally, areas where tectonic plates are located beneath oceanic configurations, such as the Pacific Ocean, experience earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. However, there are terrestrial features on our planet that cannot be easily explained solely by the boundaries of tectonic plates.

To gain a better understanding of these complex formations, scientists have conducted a comparison between the size of valleys at different tectonic plate boundaries and the temperature and chemical differences within these plates. The findings, which have been published in Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, indicate that the largest valleys, measuring up to 2 km deep and several kilometers long, are formed in areas where the earth’s crust is cool. An example of such an area is the Arabian-Indian Sea region.

Moreover, the edges of tectonic plates are also influenced by subtle movements, as observed in regions like the Black, Caspian, and Aral Seas, as well as the Eastern European plain.

These distinct features have taken millions of years to form and have played a crucial role in various geological processes on our planet, including erosion and sedimentation.