In geology, what does the term 'plate' refer to?

In geology, the term 'plate' refers specifically to a large section of the Earth's rigid outer crust, known as the lithosphere. The lithosphere is divided into several tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them. These tectonic plates can move, interact, and cause geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of mountains. The concept of plate tectonics is fundamental to understanding the dynamic processes that shape the Earth's surface over geological time scales, making this definition crucial for geologists and students of geology. Other definitions do not capture this essential aspect of the term 'plate' in the context of Earth's structure and dynamics.