What does the term 'tectonic' primarily relate to?

The term 'tectonic' primarily relates to the movement of the Earth's crust. It derives from the Greek word "tektonikos," which means "pertaining to building". In the context of geology, it refers to the processes and forces that shape the Earth's outer shell, including the formation and movement of tectonic plates. These plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them, and their interactions can lead to earthquakes, volcanic activity, mountain building, and other geological phenomena. Understanding tectonic activity is crucial for studying the Earth's structure and the dynamic processes that shape our planet over geological time.