Convergent Boundaries

Front

What are convergent boundaries?

Back

Convergent boundaries are areas where two tectonic plates move towards each other, often leading to one plate being forced below the other, a process known as subduction.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another plate and sinks into the mantle as the plates converge.

Front

What geological features are commonly formed at convergent boundaries?

Back

Common geological features include mountains, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

Why do supervolcanoes form at convergent boundaries?

Back

Supervolcanoes form when a tectonic plate subducts, melts, and hot magma rises to the surface.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is thinner, denser, and primarily made of basalt, while continental crust is thicker, less dense, and primarily made of granite.

Front

What causes tectonic plates to move?

Back

Tectonic plates move due to convection currents in the mantle, which are caused by the heat from the Earth's core.

Front

What is a volcanic arc?

Back

A volcanic arc is a chain of volcanoes formed above a subducting plate, typically found at convergent boundaries.

Front

What happens to the oceanic crust at a subduction zone?

Back

At a subduction zone, the denser oceanic crust is forced down into the mantle, where it melts.

Front

What is the relationship between convergent boundaries and earthquakes?

Back

Convergent boundaries are often associated with earthquakes due to the intense pressure and friction as plates collide and interact.

Front

What is an island arc?

Back

An island arc is a type of volcanic archipelago formed from the subduction of an oceanic plate beneath another oceanic plate.