article_snippet: However, researchers have never been able to work out why Earth developed tectonic plates, but other planets did not.
article_snippet: Research suggests how and when Earth came to develop one of Research most distinct features - rigid tectonic plates - and why Venus, Earth’s twin-like neighbor, never has. '
article_snippet: weak zones persisted, developed into plate boundaries, and ultimately connected to form a global network of tectonic plates.
article_snippet: weak zones, weak zones argue, resulted from the tendency of mineral grains in rocks to shrink as the rock deforms.