A row of 4 diagrams, each labeled with a letter and caption. Choice A: One plate is going underneath the other plate and sinking into the soft rock below. Choice B: One plate is going underneath the other plate and sinking into the ocean below. Choice C: Two plates are pushing against each other, causing the edges to bend upward. Choice D: Two plates are hitting each other, and the plates are breaking into pieces, creating sand.

Question

11. A team of geologists has been using GPS to track two plates that are moving toward each other. Which diagram shows what is happening at the place where the plates are moving toward each other?
Responses

a
Diagram A: One plate is going underneath the other plate and sinking into the soft rock below.
Diagram A: One plate is going underneath the other plate and sinking into the soft rock below.

b
Diagram B: One plate is going underneath the other plate and sinking into the ocean below.
Diagram B: One plate is going underneath the other plate and sinking into the ocean below.

c
Diagram C: Two plates are pushing against each other, causing the edges to bend upward.
Diagram C: Two plates are pushing against each other, causing the edges to bend upward.

d
Diagram D: Two plates are hitting each other, and the plates are breaking into pieces, creating sand.
Diagram D: Two plates are hitting each other, and the plates are breaking into pieces, creating sand.

Answer 1

The scenario described involves two tectonic plates moving toward each other, which is characteristic of convergent plate boundaries. In this case, the best choice is:

c Diagram C: Two plates are pushing against each other, causing the edges to bend upward.

This description accurately represents the process that occurs at convergent boundaries, where plates collide and create features like mountains or cause the edges of the plates to deform.