What type of boundary is created when tectonic plates move apart?

When tectonic plates move apart, a divergent boundary is formed. This type of boundary is characterized by the upward movement of magma from the mantle as the plates separate, leading to the creation of new oceanic crust. Divergent boundaries are commonly found along mid-ocean ridges, where tectonic activity leads to volcanic activity and the formation of new seafloor.

At these boundaries, the divergence allows for the continuous recycling of Earth's crust, contributing to the dynamic nature of plate tectonics. This process also results in earthquakes and geological features like rift valleys on land and mid-ocean ridges in oceanic areas, showcasing the active nature of these areas as tectonic plates continuously shift and separate.

In contrast, other types of boundaries involve different mechanisms of plate interaction, such as convergent boundaries where plates move towards each other, and transform boundaries where plates slide past one another.