Earths Structure And Layers Questions Medium
Divergent plate boundaries are areas where two tectonic plates are moving away from each other. These boundaries are characterized by specific geological features and processes.
One of the main characteristics of divergent plate boundaries is the presence of a mid-ocean ridge. This is a long, underwater mountain range that forms as magma rises from the mantle and creates new crust. As the plates move apart, the magma fills the gap, solidifies, and forms new oceanic crust. This process is known as seafloor spreading.
Another geological feature associated with divergent plate boundaries is rift valleys. These are deep, elongated depressions that form on land when the plates separate. As the crust stretches and thins, the lithosphere breaks apart, creating a rift valley. The East African Rift Valley is a well-known example of a continental rift caused by divergent plate boundaries.
Volcanic activity is also common at divergent plate boundaries. As the plates move apart, magma from the mantle rises to the surface, leading to the formation of volcanoes. These volcanoes are typically shield volcanoes, characterized by gentle slopes and basaltic lava flows. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the Iceland hotspot are examples of volcanic activity associated with divergent plate boundaries.
Additionally, earthquakes are frequent along divergent plate boundaries, although they are generally less intense compared to those occurring at convergent plate boundaries. These earthquakes result from the movement and separation of the plates, as well as the release of stress accumulated during the stretching of the lithosphere.
In summary, divergent plate boundaries are characterized by the presence of mid-ocean ridges, rift valleys, volcanic activity, and relatively mild earthquakes. These features and processes are a result of the plates moving apart, allowing for the creation of new crust and the formation of unique geological formations.