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In plate tectonics, a divergent boundary or divergent plate boundary (also known as a constructive boundary or an extensional boundary) is a linear feature that exists between two tectonic plates that are moving away from each other.
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When a divergent boundary occurs beneath oceanic lithosphere, the rising convection current below lifts the lithosphere, producing a mid-ocean ridge. Extensional forces stretch the lithosphere and produce a deep fissure. When the fissure opens, pressure is reduced on the super-heated mantle material below. It responds by melting, and the new magma ...
The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a classic example of this type of plate boundary. The Ridge is a high area compared to the surrounding seafloor because of the lift from the convection current below. A frequent misconception is that the Ridge is a build-up of volcanic materials; however, the magma that fills the fissure does not flood extensively over the...
Visit the Interactive Plate Boundary Map to explore satellite images of divergent boundaries between oceanic plates. Two locations are marked: 1) the Mid-Atlantic Ridge exposed above sea level on the island of Iceland, and 2) the Mid-Atlantic Ridge between North America and Africa.
Effects that are found at a divergent boundary between oceanic plates include: a submarine mountain range such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge; volcanic activity in the form of fissure eruptions; shallow earthquake activity; creation of new seafloor and a widening ocean basin. Effects that are found at this type of plate boundary include: a rift valley s...
Learn how plates move apart above rising convection currents and create different features depending on the type of lithosphere. See examples of divergent boundaries in the ocean and on land, and explore satellite images of rifts and mid-ocean ridges.
Jan 17, 2020 · Divergent boundaries exist where tectonic plates move apart from each other. Unlike convergent boundaries, divergence occurs between only oceanic or only continental plates, not one of each.
- Andrew Alden
Mar 7, 2024 · Learn about the different types of plate boundaries, where tectonic plates meet and interact, and the geological features they form. A divergent plate boundary occurs when two plates spread apart, creating a ridge or a mountain chain.
Learn about divergent plate boundaries, where tensional forces pull plates apart and form new crust. Explore examples of spreading centers, seafloor spreading, continental rifting, and crustal extension.
Learn about the formation and features of divergent plate boundaries, where new oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges. Explore the evidence for seafloor spreading, the mechanism of mantle plumes, and the age and thickness of the oceanic crust.
Learn how divergent boundaries occur when lithospheric plates move away from each other, creating continental rift zones and mid-ocean ridges. Explore the features, processes, and examples of rifting, volcanism, and seafloor spreading.
