Question

Consider the following statements:

1. Transform boundaries form fault regions.

2. These plate boundaries are famous for volcanoes and earthquakes.

3. When plates slide past each other, fold mountains are formed.

Choose the correct option:

• A. Only 1 is correct
• B. 1 and 2 are correct
• C. 2 and 3 are correct
• D. All are incorrect

Answer 1

Answer:

B. 1 and 2 are correct

Understanding Plate Tectonics and Boundaries

Transform Boundaries

• Formation of Fault Regions: Transform plate boundaries are characterized by the lateral sliding of one tectonic plate past another. This movement creates immense friction and stress, leading to the formation of extensive fault systems, often referred to as transform faults. Famous examples include the San Andreas Fault in California.
• Absence of Volcanic Activity: Unlike convergent and divergent boundaries, transform boundaries are generally not associated with volcanic activity. This is because there is no significant creation or destruction of crust, and magma does not typically rise to the surface.

Earthquakes at Transform Boundaries

• High Seismic Activity: The immense stress built up as plates slide past each other is periodically released in the form of earthquakes. Therefore, transform boundaries are regions of significant seismic activity, experiencing frequent and sometimes powerful earthquakes.

Other Plate Boundaries

• Convergent Boundaries and Mountains: Fold mountains, such as the Himalayas, are primarily formed at convergent plate boundaries where two continental plates collide. The immense compressional forces cause the crust to buckle, fold, and uplift.
• Divergent Boundaries and Volcanoes: Divergent boundaries, where plates move apart, are responsible for the creation of new oceanic crust and are characterized by volcanic activity, such as at mid-ocean ridges.

Summary of Plate Boundary Types

• Transform: Plates slide past each other, leading to fault regions and earthquakes. No significant volcanism.
• Divergent: Plates move apart, creating new crust, associated with volcanic activity and rift valleys.
• Convergent: Plates collide, leading to subduction (oceanic-continental, oceanic-oceanic) or mountain building (continental-continental), often associated with volcanism and earthquakes.