Describe and explain what happens at constructive (separating) plate boundaries and destructive (colliding) plate boundaries. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 3C - 2019

Destructive plate boundaries take place where an oceanic plate collides with either a continental plate or another oceanic plate, leading to subduction. In this process, the denser oceanic plate is pushed down into the mantle, creating deep ocean trenches. The subduction zone can cause significant geological activity, including powerful earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. As the plates grind against each other, friction increases, often resulting in seismic activity. Over time, this process can lead to mountain formation, such as the Andes in South America.

A diagram illustrating the separation of tectonic plates at a mid-ocean ridge can be included. The illustration should show rising magma creating new crust and indicate the direction of plate movement.

An annotated diagram should depict the subduction of an oceanic plate beneath a continental plate. This diagram should label the ocean trench and volcanic arcs formed due to the subduction process.

An example of a constructive plate boundary is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American plates are moving apart.

An example of a destructive plate boundary is the Nazca Plate subducting beneath the South American Plate, leading to the formation of the Andes Mountains.

In summary, constructive boundaries are integral in building new geological features through the process of seafloor spreading, while destructive boundaries are crucial for recycling Earth's crust, leading to volcanic activity and mountain building. Understanding these boundaries helps us comprehend Earth's dynamic processes and associated hazards.