Plate tectonic theory is a theory that proposes that earth's outer shell consists of individual plates that interact in various ways.

The differences between continental drift and plate tectonic theory is continental drift is a hypothesis that originally proposed that the continents had once been joined to form a single super continent. The plate tectonic theory is the theory that proposes that earth's outer shell consists of individual plates that interact in various ways.

Evidence for the plate tectonics theory includes

1. Paleomagnetism this is rocks formed millions of years ago thus show the location of the magnetic poles at the same time of their formation.
2. Earthquake Patterns this proves the plate tectonic theory because there is a close link between deep-focus earthquakes and ocean trenches also with the absence of deep focus earthquakes along the oceanic ridge system shows to be consistent with the plate tectonic theory
3. Ocean Drilling this shows the data on the ages of the sea floor sediment confirmed that the youngest oceanic crust is at the ridge crust and the oldest oceanic crust is at the continental margins
4. Hot Spot evidence supports the idea that the plates move over the earth's surface