What happens when two tectonic plates collide?
Quick Answer
Depending on the type of plates that collide, they either lift or subduct. When an oceanic plate collides with a continental plate, it typically slides underneath it. If two like plates collide, they crush together at the collision point and lift up broken material from both plates.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
Tectonic plate collisions generate tremendous force, and the results of the impact form major geological features. Some of the features are obvious to the eye, while others may remain hidden.
Oceanic plates are typically heavier, and more dense, than continental plates, so when they collide the oceanic plate is forced down under the edge of the continental plate creating a subduction zone. Subduction zones create two significant geologic formations, magma chambers and fault lines.
Once a subduction zone is created, the pressure pushing the two plates together still exists. When it builds up too much energy, the oceanic plate slips further underneath, creating violent earthquakes that can also trigger tsunamis. When the edge of the oceanic plate is pushed down far enough, it melts from the heat of the earth's core and rises through the broken plates to form volcanoes.
Continental plates have similar densities, so when they collide, they crush and lift up creating mountain ranges such as the Himalayas and the Appalachians. These plates continue to slide and create earthquake fault zones.
Learn more about EarthquakesRelated Questions
-
Q:
What areas are prone to earthquakes?
A: Earthquakes occur most frequently around the edges of tectonic plates, especially where two plates are either colliding or sliding past one another. The mo... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How did the Ring of Fire get its name?
A: The Ring of Fire is named for the long circle of volcanoes and seismically unstable plates and faults which compose it. The ring runs along the Pacific Oce... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Where do earthquakes tend to occur?
A: While earthquakes can occur almost anywhere, they are most common around the edges of the great tectonic plates of the Earth's crust. The plates are always... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why did the Haiti earthquake happen?
A: The earthquake in Haiti was the result of sliding plates between North America and the Caribbean. The plates are slabs that cover the Earth and resemble a ... Full Answer >Filed Under:
