Geology - Plate Boundaries

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What is a Divergent Plate Boundary?

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A plate boundary where two tectonic plates move away from each other, often resulting in seafloor spreading and the formation of mid-ocean ridges.

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What happens at a Convergent Boundary?

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At a convergent boundary, two tectonic plates collide, which can lead to one plate being forced beneath another (subduction) or the formation of mountains.

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What is Subduction?

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The process where one tectonic plate slides beneath another, often leading to volcanic activity and the formation of ocean trenches.

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What is a Transform Boundary?

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A plate boundary where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, often causing earthquakes.

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What occurs when Oceanic crust collides with Continental crust?

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The denser oceanic crust is forced beneath the continental crust at a convergent boundary.

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What occurs when Continental crust collides with Continental crust?

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Neither plate is subducted; instead, they collide and create mountain ranges.

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What is Seafloor Spreading?

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The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates pull apart.

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What is a Mid-Ocean Ridge?

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An underwater mountain range formed by the upwelling of magma at divergent plate boundaries.

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What is the difference between Oceanic and Continental crust?

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Oceanic crust is denser and thinner than continental crust, which is thicker and less dense.

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What geological features are formed at Divergent Boundaries?

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Mid-ocean ridges, rift valleys, and new oceanic crust.