What are the 3 basic types of Plate Boundaries? Explain their differences (how they act).

The three basic types of plate boundaries are:

  1. Convergent boundaries: At convergent boundaries, two tectonic plates are moving towards each other. There are three subtypes of convergent boundaries:

a. Oceanic-Continental convergence: In this case, an oceanic plate collides with a continental plate. The denser oceanic plate is forced beneath the less dense continental plate, forming a subduction zone. This collision can lead to the formation of volcanic arcs, such as the Andes Mountains.

b. Oceanic-Oceanic convergence: When two oceanic plates collide, one plate is subducted beneath the other, creating a subduction zone. This can result in the formation of volcanic island arcs, such as the Japanese archipelago.

c. Continental-Continental convergence: When two continental plates collide, neither plate is subducted because continental crust is less dense than oceanic crust. Instead, the collision causes intense folding and faulting, leading to the formation of mountain ranges like the Himalayas.

  1. Divergent boundaries: At divergent boundaries, two tectonic plates are moving away from each other. This creates a gap between the plates where magma rises to the surface, forming new crust. There are two subtypes of divergent boundaries:

a. Mid-Ocean Ridge: This occurs when plates move apart in the oceanic crust. Magma rises to the surface through the gap, creating new crust and forming a ridge-like structure. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is an example of a mid-ocean ridge.

b. Continental Rift: This occurs when plates move apart through continental crust. The stretching and thinning of the crust can lead to the formation of a rift valley, such as the East African Rift.

  1. Transform boundaries: At transform boundaries, two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally. This can result in significant earthquakes, as the plates are locked together and then slip past each other suddenly. The San Andreas Fault in California is an example of a transform boundary.

Note: In order to provide an accurate and informative response, it is necessary to use appropriate scientific terms and explanations.