Calculate the distance travelled by a tectonic plate in 12 years if it moves at a speed of 3 cm per year. Express your answer in kilometres.

Step-by-step solution

1. Convert the speed from centimetres to kilometres: $3\text{cm/year}=0.03\text{m/year}=0.00003\text{km/year}$.
2. Multiply the yearly speed by the number of years: $0.00003\text{km/year}\times 12\text{years}=0.00036\text{km}$.
3. Since $0.00036\text{km}$ is equal to $0.36$ metres, the distance travelled is $0.36\text{km}$.

Concept tested: Tectonic plate movement

Published 7 October 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked