One significant underwater geological process caused by tectonic plates is seafloor spreading. This process occurs at mid-ocean ridges, where tectonic plates move apart from each other. As the plates separate, magma from the mantle rises to fill the gap, creating new oceanic crust. This process is a key component of plate tectonics and leads to the formation of new seafloor, ultimately contributing to the growth of ocean basins.
Another related process is subduction, which occurs when one tectonic plate is forced under another. This can create deep ocean trenches and is often associated with volcanic activity as the subducted plate melts and forms magma.
Both processes are crucial in shaping the underwater landscape and play significant roles in the Earth's geological cycle.
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