This site has an excellent explanation along with diagrams.
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/learn/topics/plate_tectonics/rift_man.php
I know that Divergent margins, also known as rifting or spreading centers, happen when two plates move away from one another. Convergent margins happen when two plates move towards on another. The last transform faults happen when plates move past each other grinding against one another. However I do not understand; Why earthquakes are common along these plate margins and boundaries? Could anyone help explain to me? Thanks!
4 answers
Thank you! =0)
You're welcome.
There are three general types of plate boundaries: divergent,
convergent, and transform. Each general type has multiple
‘species’: divergent boundaries can be spreading ocean ridges or
continental rift zones;
Divergent boundaries occur along spreading centers where plates are moving apart and new crust is created by magma pushing up from the mantle
convergent, and transform. Each general type has multiple
‘species’: divergent boundaries can be spreading ocean ridges or
continental rift zones;
Divergent boundaries occur along spreading centers where plates are moving apart and new crust is created by magma pushing up from the mantle