What does rifting involve?

Rifting involves the movement apart of tectonic plates, which results in the formation of cracks or fissures in the Earth's crust. This geological process occurs when tectonic forces pull the crust apart, leading to a variety of geological features such as rift valleys and, eventually, ocean basins if the rifting continues. The movement creates tension in the crust, and as the plates pull away from each other, the stress can produce significant fractures.

The significance of rifting is best exemplified in regions such as the East African Rift, where rifting is actively occurring, showcasing the separation of landmasses. This process is a crucial contributor to the ongoing reshaping of the Earth’s surface and plays an integral role in plate tectonics.