A transform boundary occurs when two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally. A horizontal or sideways motion typically characterizes the movement. Transform boundaries often create transform faults, where the plates grind against each other. These boundaries are associated with earthquakes due to accumulated stress being released along the fault line.
A divergent boundary occurs when two tectonic plates move away from each other. As the plates separate, molten rock, or magma, rises from the mantle to fill the gap, creating a new crust. Divergent boundaries are typically found along mid-ocean ridges or rift valleys on land. They are associated with volcanic activity, earthquakes, and the formation of new crusts.
A convergent boundary occurs when two tectonic plates collide or move toward each other. There are three types of convergent boundaries, depending on the types of plates involved:
a. Oceanic-Oceanic Convergent Boundary: When two oceanic plates collide, one plate is usually subducted (forced beneath) the other due to its denser nature. This subduction zone often leads to the formation of volcanic arcs, trenches, and island arcs.
b. Oceanic-Continental Convergent Boundary: When an oceanic plate collides with a continental plate, the denser oceanic plate is typically subducted beneath the continental plate. This subduction can create mountain ranges, volcanic activity, and deep-sea trenches.
c. Continental-Continental Convergent Boundary: When two continental plates collide, neither plate subducts due to their similar densities. The collision often leads to the formation of large mountain ranges with intense folding and faulting.