tectonic plates

Convergent Boundaries

One of the three main types of plate boundaries where two tectonic plates move toward each other.

Subduction

The process where a denser oceanic plate is forced underneath a lighter continental plate at convergent boundaries.

Oceanic-Continental Convergence

A type of convergent boundary where an oceanic plate converges with a continental plate, leading to subduction.

Subduction Zones

Areas where deep oceanic trenches form due to the subduction of one plate beneath another.

Volcanic Arcs

Chains of volcanoes formed on a continental plate as magma rises from a subducted oceanic plate.

Oceanic-Oceanic Convergence

A type of convergent boundary where two oceanic plates converge, leading to the formation of a trench and volcanic islands.

Island Arcs

Curved chains of volcanic islands formed from the melting of a descending oceanic plate.

Continental-Continental Convergence

A type of convergent boundary where two continental plates collide, leading to mountain building.

Mountain Ranges

Large elevations formed from the collision and compression of continental plates at convergent boundaries.

Plateau Formation

The creation of large plateaus due to the collision of continental plates.

Seismic Activity

Intense earthquakes that occur at convergent boundaries due to the interaction of tectonic plates.

Plate Tectonics

The theory that describes the movement and interaction of the Earth's lithospheric plates.

Plate Recycling

The process at convergent boundaries where oceanic crust is recycled back into the mantle through subduction.

Ridge Push

A force that drives tectonic plates away from mid-ocean ridges, contributing to plate movement at divergent boundaries.

Slab Pull

The force exerted by a sinking plate as it subducts into the mantle, considered a significant driver of plate motion.

Divergent Boundaries

Plate boundaries where two tectonic plates move away from each other, creating new crust.

Mid-Ocean Ridges

Underwater mountain ranges formed by the upwelling of magma at oceanic divergent boundaries.

Rift Valleys

Deep valleys formed on land where continental plates are being pulled apart.

Seafloor Spreading

The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and moves away from the ridge.

Transform Boundaries

Plate boundaries where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, characterized by lateral motion.