What is most likely to happen where two continental plates collide at a convergent boundary?(1 point)
Responses
One plate is subducted beneath the other.
One plate is subducted beneath the other.
The direction shifts and it becomes a transform boundary.
The direction shifts and it becomes a transform boundary.
The plates push up, forming a mountain range.
The plates push up, forming a mountain range.
A volcanic island arc is formed.
A volcanic island arc is formed.
All of the above responses are correct. When two continental plates collide at a convergent boundary, different outcomes can occur depending on various factors such as the type of plates involved and the specific tectonic setting. One plate may be subducted beneath the other, leading to the formation of a subduction zone and potentially a trench. The collision can also cause a shift in direction, leading to the formation of a transform boundary. Additionally, the plates can push up, causing the formation of a mountain range, such as the Himalayas. In some cases, a volcanic island arc can also be formed as a result of the collision.
only need 1
The plates push up, forming a mountain range.
The most likely outcome when two continental plates collide at a convergent boundary is the formation of a mountain range. To understand why this happens, let's take a closer look at the process.
When two continental plates collide, neither plate is dense enough to be subducted (or pushed beneath) the other. This is because continental crust is generally less dense than oceanic crust. Therefore, subduction, which is commonly observed in oceanic-continental plate collisions, is less likely to occur in a collision between two continental plates.
Instead, the collision causes the two plates to buckle and deform. As the plates continue to collide, large amounts of stress and pressure are generated, leading to the formation of fold mountains. Fold mountains are created when rock layers are compressed and pushed upwards, resulting in the formation of towering mountain ranges. Examples of such mountain ranges include the Himalayas, the Alps, and the Rockies.
It's important to note that in some cases, the collision between two continental plates may result in the creation of volcanic activity and a volcanic island arc. This occurs when there is subduction of an oceanic plate beneath a continental plate along with the collision. However, this outcome is less common in purely continental plate collisions.
In summary, when two continental plates collide at a convergent boundary, the most likely outcome is the formation of a mountain range through the process of crustal deformation and uplift.