Final answer:
Plate tectonic boundaries consist of three major types: divergent, convergent, and transform, as well as minor types like continent-oceanic crust boundaries. Divergent boundaries involve plates moving apart, convergent boundaries bring plates together with possible subduction, and transform boundaries slide plates past each other. Earthquake and volcanic activities are closely related to these boundaries, with convergent and transform boundaries being particularly earthquake-prone.
Step-by-step explanation:
The three major types of plate tectonic boundaries are divergent boundaries, convergent boundaries, and transform boundaries. Along with these, there are also minor boundaries such as continent-oceanic crust boundaries and divergent boundaries involving continents and oceans.
Divergent Boundaries: At divergent boundaries, tectonic plates move away from each other. This stress, known as tensional stress, often leads to the formation of new crust as magma rises to fill the gap. Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a prime example of a divergent boundary. Earthquakes are common, but they are generally less powerful than at other types of boundaries, and volcanic activity is also present.
Convergent Boundaries: Convergent boundaries occur when plates move towards each other. This compressional stress can cause one plate to subduct beneath another, leading to powerful earthquakes and significant volcanic activity. An example is the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Transform Boundaries: At transform boundaries, plates slide past one another. They are characterized by shear stress. These boundaries can cause significant earthquakes, such as those along the San Andreas Fault.
Minor Boundaries: Minor boundaries like continent-oceanic crust boundaries may occur where a continental plate meets an oceanic plate, leading to subduction zones. Divergent boundaries involving continents and oceans are less common and typically are the initial stages of new ocean basin formation.
Earthquake and Volcanic Susceptibility: Earthquake and volcanic activity vary depending on the boundary type. Convergent and transform boundaries are more susceptible to earthquakes, while convergent boundaries where subduction occurs are prone to significant volcanic activity.