Plate Tectonics (i) State whether each of the following features is formed as a result of plates colliding or plates separating: (a) Mid-ocean ridge (b) Volcano (c) Fold mountain (ii) Explain, with the aid of a labelled diagram, how any one of the features listed in part (i) above was formed. - Junior Cycle Geography - Question 1A - 2019

Volcanoes can be formed as a result of plates separating or colliding, depending on the type of volcanic activity.

Fold mountains are formed as a result of plates colliding.

I will explain the formation of a mid-ocean ridge.

Formation of a Mid-Ocean Ridge

A mid-ocean ridge is formed by tectonic plate divergence where two oceanic plates separate. As the plates move apart, magma from the mantle rises to fill the gap, creating new oceanic crust. This process can be illustrated as follows:

1. Divergence of Plates: The tectonic plates diverge due to convection currents in the mantle.
2. Magma Rise: Magma ascends through the gap left by the diverging plates.
3. Formation of New Crust: As the magma cools and solidifies upon contact with ocean water, new crust is formed along the ridge.

A labelled diagram showing this process should include:

• Diverging oceanic plates
• Rising magma
• New crust formation
• The mid-ocean ridge itself.