What are the different types of tectonic plate boundaries and their associated geological features?
Tectonic plates are massive slabs of rock that make up the Earth's crust and move around on the molten rock layer below. There are three main types of tectonic plate boundaries:
- Divergent boundaries: These are boundaries where two plates are moving away from each other. This movement causes magma from the mantle to rise and cool, creating new crust. Divergent boundaries can be found along mid-ocean ridges, where new oceanic crust is formed.
- Convergent boundaries: These are boundaries where two plates are moving towards each other. Depending on the type of crust that is involved, one plate will usually be subducted (forced under) the other. This process can result in the formation of volcanoes, mountain ranges, and deep oceanic trenches.
- Transform boundaries: These are boundaries where two plates are sliding past each other. These boundaries can cause earthquakes when the plates get stuck and then suddenly move past each other. One example of a transform boundary is the San Andreas Fault in California.
The geological features associated with tectonic plate boundaries can vary depending on the type of boundary. At divergent boundaries, new crust is formed and can result in features like mid-ocean ridges and rift valleys. Convergent boundaries can result in features like mountain ranges, volcanic arcs, and deep oceanic trenches. Transform boundaries can cause earthquakes and result in features like fault scarps and shear zones.
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