The reason the earth's tectonic plates are able to move is that they are affected by currents in the Earth's mantle.
Tectonic plates:
As a result of the mantle being heated, convection currents form which cause movement in the mantle. The tectonic plates are then forced to move around as a result of this movement.
In conclusion, the earth's tectonic plates move as a result of movement in the Earth's mantle.
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