Describe convergent plate boundaries.
Convergent plate boundaries, also known as destructive plate boundaries, occur when two tectonic plates collide or move toward each other. At these boundaries, the movement of the plates can sometimes cause dramatic geological features and processes.
There are three main types of convergent plate boundaries: oceanic-continental convergence, oceanic-oceanic convergence, and continental-continental convergence.
Oceanic-continental convergence happens when an oceanic plate collides with a continental plate. The denser oceanic plate usually subducts or goes underneath the less dense continental plate. This process creates a deep trench along the boundary and can lead to volcanic activity, earthquakes, and the formation of mountain ranges known as volcanic arcs.
Oceanic-oceanic convergence occurs when two oceanic plates collide. One plate usually subducts beneath the other, forming a deep trench. This subduction can cause volcanic activity, earthquakes, and the creation of island arcs.
Continental-continental convergence takes place when two continental plates collide. Since both plates have similar densities, neither can subduct. Instead, the intense pressure and compression cause the crust to buckle and fold, resulting in the formation of large mountain ranges.
These convergent plate boundaries are major areas of geological activity, and they can have significant impacts on the Earth's surface. They are responsible for the creation of many mountains, island chains, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes.