Which of the following is considered a divergent plate boundary?

Study for the Aquatic Science Plate Tectonics Test. Explore comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each accompanied by insights and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

A divergent plate boundary is a region where two tectonic plates are moving apart from each other, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises from beneath the Earth's surface to fill the gap. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a prime example of this type of boundary. It is an underwater mountain range that is formed by the divergence of the Eurasian Plate and the North American Plate on one side, along with the South American Plate and the African Plate on the other side. As these plates pull away from each other, magma emerges from the mantle to create new oceanic crust, making the Mid-Atlantic Ridge a significant site of geological activity and seafloor spreading.

In contrast, locations such as the Himalayan Mountains, San Andreas Fault, and Andes Mountains exemplify other tectonic processes. The Himalayas are formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, indicating a convergent boundary. The San Andreas Fault is a transform fault, where two plates slide past each other. Lastly, the Andes Mountains are primarily formed by the subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate, another example of convergent boundaries.

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