What is the movement of the Earth's land masses known as?

The movement of the Earth's land masses is referred to as continental drift. This concept, first proposed in the early 20th century by scientist Alfred Wegener, explains how continents have moved over geological time. Continental drift describes the gradual shifting of the Earth's continents in relation to each other, which has significant implications for plate tectonics and the geographical arrangement of the planet.

Understanding continental drift is crucial as it also helps to explain various geological phenomena, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges. The idea that continents were once part of a single supercontinent called Pangea further supports this theory, illustrating how the Earth's surface has changed dramatically over millions of years. Thus, continental drift is the correct term for describing the movement and reconfiguration of the continents.