Which of the following statements about divergent boundaries is true?
Divergent boundaries are one of the three types of plate boundaries, alongside convergent and transform boundaries. These boundaries occur when two tectonic plates move away from each other, creating new crust and geological activity. Understanding the characteristics and implications of divergent boundaries is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of the Earth’s crust and the processes that shape our planet. In this article, we will explore the various statements about divergent boundaries and determine which one is true.
Statement 1: Divergent boundaries are located at the center of the Earth’s crust.
This statement is false. Divergent boundaries are not located at the center of the Earth’s crust. Instead, they are found at the edges of tectonic plates, where they move apart. The movement of these plates away from each other leads to the formation of new crust and geological features.
Statement 2: Divergent boundaries are characterized by intense seismic activity.
This statement is true. Divergent boundaries are indeed characterized by intense seismic activity. As the tectonic plates move apart, magma rises from the mantle to fill the gap, creating new crust. This process, known as seafloor spreading, leads to the formation of mid-ocean ridges and is accompanied by frequent earthquakes.
Statement 3: Divergent boundaries are responsible for the formation of mountains.
This statement is false. Divergent boundaries are not responsible for the formation of mountains. Instead, mountains are typically formed at convergent boundaries, where two tectonic plates collide and compress the crust, leading to uplift and the formation of mountain ranges.
Statement 4: Divergent boundaries are always found in the oceanic crust.
This statement is false. Divergent boundaries can occur in both oceanic and continental crust. While they are more commonly found in the oceanic crust, where seafloor spreading occurs, they can also be found in the continental crust, resulting in the formation of rift valleys.
In conclusion, the true statement about divergent boundaries is that they are characterized by intense seismic activity. This seismic activity is a result of the process of seafloor spreading, where magma rises to fill the gap created by the moving tectonic plates. Understanding the true nature of divergent boundaries is essential for comprehending the dynamic processes that shape our planet’s geology.
