Why is long-term data collection, often over many years, necessary when using GPS to study plate motion?

GPS satellites require several years to calibrate their instruments correctly.

A single measurement is insufficient because tectonic plates move extremely slowly.

Scientists must wait for a major earthquake to occur to get a valid reading.

It takes years for the GPS signals to travel from the satellite to the receiver and back.

A scientist places one GPS receiver in central Africa and another in central South America. After a decade, the data shows the distance between the two receivers has increased by about 25 centimeters. What is the best conclusion from this data?

The receivers are likely malfunctioning.

The Atlantic Ocean is gradually getting wider.

A new mountain range is forming between the continents.

The Earth's magnetic field has reversed.

The exact age and chemical makeup of the plate.

The temperature and pressure deep within the mantle.

The precise speed and direction of the plate's movement.

The likelihood of a volcanic eruption at a specific location.

To predict the exact timing and magnitude of future earthquakes.

To measure the slow, continuous movement of Earth's crustal plates.

To create detailed topographical maps of the ocean floor.

To analyze the chemical composition of volcanic rock samples.