Which term refers to large, mobile slabs of rock that make up Earth's surface?

The term that refers to large, mobile slabs of rock that make up Earth's surface is "Plates." This term is widely used in geology to describe the tectonic plates that comprise the Earth's lithosphere. These plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them and can move due to various geological processes, including convection currents in the mantle.

Understanding the concept of tectonic plates is fundamental in geology, as their interactions lead to the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. The movement of these plates can occur in several ways: they may converge, diverge, or slide past one another, which significantly impacts the Earth's surface and geological features. Emphasizing this term helps to clarify the nature of the Earth's structure and the dynamics of its behavior over time, which are critical elements in mining engineering and resource management.