Global Tectonic Framework; Plates and Plate motions, measurement of relative plate motions, Instantaneous and finite rotations, Triple junctions. Continental reconstructions; Euler’s theorem, Paleogeographic reconstructions based on geological and geophysical data sets. Oceanic spreading ridges- variation in crustal and thermal structure between slow- and fast- spreading ridges, oceanic transform faults and fracture zones.

Continental rifts- characteristics, classification and origin. Evolution of continental margins – volcanic and non-volcanic margins.