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What is the difference between a convergent and divergent plate boundary?
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Step 1
**Step 1:** Understand the terms "convergent" and "divergent" in the context of plate tectonics.

- In plate tectonics, convergent boundaries are where two tectonic plates move toward each other, causing collision and compression of the Earth' crust. Divergent boundaries, on the other hand, are where two tectonic plates move away from each other, causing the crust to stretch and break apart.

Step 2
**Step 2:** Describe the characteristics of a convergent plate boundary.

- At a convergent plate boundary, the denser plate will typically be forced beneath the less dense plate in a process called subduction. This can lead to the formation of volcanic arcs, deep-sea trenches, and mountain ranges. An example of a convergent plate boundary is the boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, which forms the Aleutian Islands and the Aleutian Trench.

Final Answer

Convergent and divergent plate boundaries are distinct types of plate boundaries with different characteristics. At a convergent plate boundary, two tectonic plates collide, causing compression and the formation of volcanic arcs, deep-sea trenches, and mountain ranges. At a divergent plate boundary, the Earth's crust is stretched and thinned, leading to the formation of new crust and often associated with mid-ocean ridges.

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