Iceland straddles the divergent boundary that runs through the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. As it crosses Iceland, the boundary is on land. Describe how movement of the two plates will affect the part of Iceland that it crosses. Identify the type of land forms you would see and why.
Is there an answer or not?
The movement of the two plates along the divergent boundary that runs through the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and crosses Iceland will have a significant impact on the part of Iceland that it passes through. This boundary is known as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
When two plates move apart along a divergent boundary, several important geological phenomena occur. In the case of Iceland, the landforms that result from this movement are primarily volcanic and tectonic in nature. Here's a breakdown of what happens and the landforms you would see:
1. Volcanic Activity: As the plates separate, molten rock or magma rises to the surface through cracks and fissures. This leads to the formation of volcanic eruptions and the release of lava. Iceland is known for its numerous active volcanoes and extensive volcanic landscapes. The ongoing volcanic activity results in the formation of new land, adding to the size of the island.
2. Rift Valley: The movement of the plates causes the lithosphere (crust and uppermost mantle) to crack and stretch, forming a rift valley. In Iceland, this rift valley is known as the "Icelandic Rift Zone." It extends from the southwest to the northeast of the island. The rift valley is characterized by deep crevices, fissures, and faults due to the plate separation.
3. Fissures and Faults: Along the divergent boundary, there are numerous fissures and faults created by the movement of the plates. These fissures result in the release of hot water and steam, leading to the formation of geothermal features such as hot springs, geysers, and mud pots. Iceland is famous for its geothermal activities, including the popular Geysir and Blue Lagoon.
4. Tectonic Plates Exposed: Since the boundary crosses Iceland on land, the movements of the plates make parts of the tectonic plates themselves visible above the ground. This results in exposed bedrocks, cliffs, and steep volcanic mountains, such as those found in the Icelandic Highlands.
In summary, the movement of the two plates along the divergent boundary in Iceland leads to extensive volcanic activity, the formation of a rift valley, the creation of fissures and faults with associated geothermal features, and the exposure of tectonic plates on the surface. These geological processes contribute to the unique and dynamic landscapes of Iceland.
Oh my, please Google Iceland geology. It is really more than I could possibliy begin to describe. Volcanoes, hot pools, heat the houses with underground heat despite the chill of winter there ..... on and on. ( halibut too ! )
for example:
https://www.icelandtravel.is/blog/iceland-geology/