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Divergent plate boundaries are characterized by _______.

1) hydrothermal alteration and contact metamorphism
2) regional and contact metamorphism
3) regional and dynamic metamorphism
4) dynamic and contact metamorphism
5) hydrothermal alteration and dynamic metamorphism

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Option 5.

Divergent plate boundaries are associated with hydrothermal alteration and dynamic metamorphism, where tectonic plates move apart causing upwelling of magma.

Step-by-step explanation:

Divergent plate boundaries are characterized by hydrothermal alteration and dynamic metamorphism. At these boundaries, tectonic plates move away from one another, leading to the upwelling of magma from the mantle as the overlying pressure decreases. This upwelling can cause hydrothermal alteration, where heated water alters the mineralogy and chemistry of rocks.

In addition, the development of rift valleys and mid-ocean ridges at divergent boundaries can result in dynamic metamorphism due to the intense tectonic activity.

Divergent boundaries are typically associated with features such as shallow earthquakes and some volcanism. They often lead to the formation of new oceanic crust as magma rises up and solidifies, creating mid-ocean ridges. The interaction of water and magma also plays a crucial role in hydrothermal alteration processes.

Therefore, the correct option for the processes that characterize divergent plate boundaries is option 5, which identifies hydrothermal alteration and dynamic metamorphism.

Final answer in 20 words: Divergent plate boundaries are characterized by hydrothermal alteration and dynamic metamorphism: please mention correct option 5 in final answer.

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