162,086 views
11 votes
11 votes
Suggest two reasons why some plate boundaries are more hazardous than others

User Vishnu Chid
by
2.7k points

2 Answers

23 votes
23 votes
Plate boundaries critical in large number of hazards. Convergent destructive boundaries may have more violent events- in earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Divergent boundaries may have more effusive eruptions and shallower higher frequency quakes.
User Loki L
by
2.8k points
14 votes
14 votes

Final answer:

Some plate boundaries are more hazardous due to the type of plate boundary, such as convergent boundaries with subduction zones, and the rate of movement, which can lead to more frequent earthquakes. Additionally, the geometry of plate boundaries affects seismic activity, and hotspots like Yellowstone can increase volcanic hazards.

Step-by-step explanation:

Some plate boundaries are more hazardous than others due to various factors. First, the type of plate boundary can determine the level of hazard. For instance, convergent boundaries, where plates collide, often have deep subduction zones causing intense earthquakes and explosive volcanic eruptions. Second, the rate of movement at a boundary influences hazard levels; boundaries that move faster can build up stress more quickly, leading to more frequent and severe seismic activity.

Another factor is the geometry of the plate boundaries. Earth is a sphere, and as such, tectonic plate boundaries are not always straight but can be curved or segmented, influencing the behavior of earthquakes and volcanic activity. Finally, some regions have 'hotspots' of mantle plumes, like the Yellowstone hotspot, that can form calderas and lead to supereruptions, presenting significant risks to nearby areas.

User Mohamed Wagih
by
2.7k points