What is an island arc?
A - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 5
What is an island arc?
A. Where oceanic plates collide, subduction leads to increased friction and melting. The less dense material begins to rise through the crust... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What is an island arc?
A - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. Where oceanic plates collide, subduction leads to increased friction and melting.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
An island arc is formed when oceanic plates collide and one is forced beneath the other in a process called subduction. This action causes increased friction and melting of the subducted plate, allowing molten material to rise and create a series of volcanic islands. These islands typically form in a curved line, reflecting the shape of the subducting plate.