Which type of boundary is characterized by two plates moving toward each other?

Prepare for the Fundamentals of Geology Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Get ready to ace your geology test!

The type of boundary characterized by two plates moving toward each other is a convergent boundary. At convergent boundaries, tectonic plates collide, leading to a variety of geological phenomena, including the formation of mountain ranges, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

When two plates come together, one may be forced beneath the other in a process known as subduction. This is particularly common when an oceanic plate converges with a continental plate, leading to the recycling of oceanic crust back into the mantle and the creation of volcanic activity along the edges of the overriding continental plate.

The interaction at convergent boundaries can result in significant geological events such as earthquakes and mountain building, illustrating how the movement and collision of tectonic plates actively shape Earth’s surface over geological time. Understanding convergent boundaries is essential for studying plate tectonics and the dynamic nature of the Earth's crust.

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