What characterizes a transform fault?

A transform fault is characterized specifically by the sliding motion of two tectonic plates past one another along a fracture in the Earth's crust. This lateral movement results in significant geological activity, often producing earthquakes due to the friction and stress that build up as the plates grind against each other. Transform faults do not involve the creation or destruction of crust; instead, they are primarily horizontal movements.

In the context of the other options, the first choice describes divergence, where tectonic plates are moving apart, typically seen at mid-ocean ridges. The third choice pertains to convergent boundaries where plates collide or move towards each other, leading to processes such as subduction or mountain-building. The final option incorrectly states that transform faults are areas of no tectonic activity, while in reality, they can be hotspots for seismic events due to the stress accumulation along the fault lines.