Divergent Plate Boundaries (Regents Earth Science)

Front

What is a divergent plate boundary?

Back

A divergent plate boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What geological feature is commonly associated with divergent boundaries?

Back

Mid-ocean ridges are commonly associated with divergent boundaries, where new oceanic crust is formed.

Front

What is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge?

Back

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a continuous mountain range that runs down the center of the Atlantic Ocean, formed by the divergence of the Eurasian and North American plates.

Front

How does sea-floor spreading occur?

Back

Sea-floor spreading occurs at divergent boundaries when magma rises to the surface, creating new oceanic crust and pushing older crust away from the ridge.

Front

What is the significance of magnetic field reversals in oceanic crust?

Back

Magnetic field reversals are recorded in the oceanic crust as symmetrical patterns on either side of mid-ocean ridges, providing evidence for sea-floor spreading.

Front

What type of plate boundary exists between the African Plate and the Antarctic Plate?

Back

The boundary between the African Plate and the Antarctic Plate is a divergent plate boundary.

Front

What is a rift valley?

Back

A rift valley is a lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, characterized by steep walls and often filled with water.

Front

Which tectonic plates are involved in the formation of the East African Rift?

Back

The East African Rift is formed by the divergence of the African Plate and the Somali Plate.

Front

What happens to the crust at a divergent boundary?

Back

At a divergent boundary, the crust is pulled apart, leading to thinning and the formation of new crust as magma rises.

Front

What is the role of magma in divergent boundaries?

Back

Magma rises from the mantle at divergent boundaries to create new crust, contributing to the formation of mid-ocean ridges.