Question
Which of the following is the best description of tectonic plate movement at a transform boundary? A. The collision of the plates results in the formation of mountains. B. Separation of the plates causes rising magma and seafloor spreading. C. The plates grind past each other, producing seismic waves. D. One plate slides beneath the other and begins to melt.
Ask by Tran Wang. in the United States
Jan 07,2025
Upstudy AI Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
The plates move past each other at a transform boundary, causing earthquakes.
**
Solution
To determine the best description of tectonic plate movement at a transform boundary, let's analyze each option:
A. **The collision of the plates results in the formation of mountains.**
- This describes a convergent boundary, where plates collide and can form mountains.
B. **Separation of the plates causes rising magma and seafloor spreading.**
- This describes a divergent boundary, where plates move apart, allowing magma to rise and create new oceanic crust.
C. **The plates grind past each other, producing seismic waves.**
- This accurately describes a transform boundary, where two plates slide past one another horizontally, often leading to earthquakes.
D. **One plate slides beneath the other and begins to melt.**
- This describes a subduction zone, which is characteristic of convergent boundaries.
Based on this analysis, the best description of tectonic plate movement at a transform boundary is:
**C. The plates grind past each other, producing seismic waves.**
Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor
Like
error msg
Explain 
Simplify this solution Mind Expander
Transform boundaries are like nature’s version of a dance floor, where tectonic plates slide past one another. This lateral movement can create some serious friction, leading to those seismic waves known as earthquakes. Think of it as plates shaking hands—sometimes too vigorously! In places like California’s San Andreas Fault, this plate interaction has produced significant geological features and events. Instead of forming mountains or volcanic activity, the constant sliding and grinding can lead to fascinating (and sometimes scary) situations! So, if you ever feel the ground shaking, thank those sly transform boundaries for the excitement!
