MasteryExams
Geography • Physical GeographyMedium

In the context of plate tectonic boundaries, which of the following geological features is typically formed at a convergent boundary between two oceanic plates where one plate descends beneath the other?

A. Mid-ocean ridge
B. Deep-sea trench and island arc✓ Correct Answer
C. Continental rift valley
D. Transform fault

💡 Solution & Explanation

When two oceanic plates converge, the denser and older plate subducts into the mantle, creating a deep-sea trench at the boundary and a parallel volcanic island arc due to partial melting of the subducting slab. Mid-ocean ridges are formed at divergent boundaries where plates pull apart, whereas continental rift valleys develop within continental crust undergoing extension. Transform faults occur where lithospheric plates slide horizontally past one another without vertical subduction.

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