The difference in density between oceanic and continental plates primarily leads to the phenomenon of subduction. Oceanic plates are generally denser than continental plates, which causes the denser oceanic plate to be forced underneath the less dense continental plate at convergent plate boundaries. This process can lead to the formation of deep ocean trenches, volcanic arcs, and mountain ranges.
On the other hand, hotspots are generally associated with volcanic activity that occurs away from tectonic plate boundaries and is driven by plumes of hot material rising from deep within the Earth's mantle rather than the density difference between the plates themselves.
In summary, the difference in density between oceanic and continental plates is responsible for subduction.
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