The idea that the processes that formed the earth have taken more than thousands of years instead of quickly is known as

The idea that the processes that formed the earth have taken more than thousands of years instead of quickly is known as Gradualism.

Explanation:

Gradualism is the theory that suggests that the steps in formation of earth’s surface is due to the gradual changes which increased through time. Gradualism means no sudden changes in the earth’s structure for the formation of its surface. Rather, it suggests that the earth took thousands of years to change the surface from a hot molten magma huge mass to become only planet that supports life.

Mantle convection is the process that drives plate tectonics. the theory of plate tectonics states that the crust is divided into plates that float on the semi molten mantle below. the circular motion of the magma as it slowly rises and falls or move though convection cells drags the plates along causing them to move. the heat source in the lamp would represent the earth's core. the core is the source of energy that drives convection in the mantle. the lava represents molten magma under the earth's surface. if the lava lamp had floating pieces they would move as the circular motion of the lava in the lamp as it rises and falls would move them along the surface. these floating pieces would represent pieces of the earth's crust. 

Answer volcanic eruptionsseismic waves from earthquakes;