Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Practice Test

What kind of plate boundary occurs when two plates collide?

1. Transform Boundary

2. Divergent Boundary

3. Convergent Boundary

4. Plate Boundary

The correct answer is: Convergent Boundary

When two tectonic plates collide, this interaction defines a convergent boundary. At convergent boundaries, the plates can either push against one another, leading to mountain formation, or one plate can be forced under the other in a process known as subduction. This can result in various geological features and phenomena, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The nature of the collision and the type of plates involved can lead to different outcomes: for instance, an oceanic plate colliding with a continental plate often results in the denser oceanic plate subducting beneath the less dense continental plate, creating deep ocean trenches and volcanic arcs. When two continental plates collide, they can create extensive mountain ranges due to the accumulation of material at the boundary. In contrast, a transform boundary involves plates sliding past one another horizontally without extensive vertical motion, while a divergent boundary occurs when plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, typically seen at mid-ocean ridges. A plate boundary is a more general term and does not specify the interaction type, making it less precise in the context of this question. The characteristics associated with convergent boundaries make it clear why this is the correct answer.