The Iceland Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a divergent plate boundary where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart, which is evidenced qualitatively by the presence of volcanic activity and rift valleys at the surface, indicating tectonic movement. Quantitatively, geophysical measurements such as the seafloor spreading rate, estimated at approximately 2.5 centimeters per year, support the divergence and geological surveys show a consistent trend of younger basaltic rocks closer to the ridge, indicating continuous formation of new crust. Additionally, seismic activity along the ridge provides further evidence of tectonic movements consistent with divergent boundaries, where a significant number of earthquakes occur in the region, reflecting the ongoing tectonic processes.
Give qualitative and quantitative EVIDENCE on why the Iceland mid ocean ridge is a divergent plate boundary. Explain in 3 sentences
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