Tectonic processes refer to the movements and interactions of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into large plates known as tectonic plates. These plates float on the semi-fluid layer of the mantle beneath them and can move apart, collide, or slide past each other. This movement is driven by forces such as mantle convection, gravity, and the Earth's rotation. As tectonic plates interact, they can create various geological features and phenomena. For example, when plates collide, they may form mountain ranges like the Himalayas, while divergent boundaries can lead to the formation of new oceanic crust at mid-ocean ridges. Additionally, these processes can cause earthquakes and volcanic activity, significantly shaping the Earth's surface.