1. Seafloor spreading: Divergent plate boundaries are characterized by the upwelling of magma from the mantle, which creates new oceanic crust. As the plates move apart, magma rises to the surface and solidifies, adding new material to the ocean floor.
2. Rift valley formation: The stretching and thinning of the lithosphere along a divergent plate boundary can create a rift valley. As the plates pull apart, the crust in between is pulled down, creating a low-lying valley.
3. Volcanism: Volcanic activity is common at divergent plate boundaries, as magma rises to the surface and erupts, forming new crust. This can result in underwater volcanic eruptions or the formation of volcanic islands along the boundary.
4. Earthquakes: As the plates move apart, stress is placed on the crust, leading to the formation of faults and fractures. This can result in earthquakes along the boundary as the crust adjusts to the movement of the plates.
5. Hydrothermal venting: Divergent plate boundaries are also sites of hydrothermal venting, where hot mineral-rich water is expelled from the seafloor. These vents support unique ecosystems of organisms that are adapted to extreme conditions.
What are the major processes that occurs at all divergent plate boundaries
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