Questions and Answers
What is a divergent plate boundary?
A tectonic boundary where __________ is a divergent plate boundary.
two plates are moving away from each other
New crust is forming from _____ that rises to the Earth's surface between the two plates.
magma
Mid-ocean ridges and continental rift valleys are __________ of divergent plate boundaries.
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What forms at divergent plate boundaries?
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What are mid-ocean ridges?
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What is an example of a feature formed at a divergent plate boundary?
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Mid-ocean ridges are common features of convergent plate boundaries.
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Study Notes
Divergent Plate Boundary
- A tectonic boundary where two tectonic plates separate, allowing magma to rise and create new crust.
- Key geological features include mid-ocean ridges and continental rift valleys.
- Characterized by volcanic activity as magma emerges through fissures between the separating plates.
Mid-Ocean Ridges
- Found at divergent boundaries located beneath oceans, forming continuous mountain ranges.
- Examples include the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a prominent mid-ocean ridge that runs through the Atlantic Ocean.
- Facilitate sea-floor spreading, contributing to the movement of tectonic plates.
Continental Rift Valleys
- Formed when continental plates diverge, leading to the development of elongated lowland areas.
- The East African Rift is a significant example of a continental rift valley.
- Potential for volcanic activity and the formation of new lakes in these rift systems.
Crust Formation
- New oceanic crust is continuously generated, replacing older crust, thus influencing oceanic topography.
- Divergent boundaries lead to shallow earthquakes due to the movement and fracturing of the lithosphere.
- The process of creating new crust at these boundaries is essential for the cycling of Earth’s surface materials.
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Test your knowledge of divergent plate boundaries with these flashcards. Learn about the tectonic processes where two plates move apart and the geological features that result from this movement. Ideal for geology students and enthusiasts!
