Question

unit exam - earth systems
what is the main characteristic of divergent boundaries in plate tectonics?
plates move apart from each other.
plates move toward each other.
plates slide past each other horizontally.

Explanation:

Divergent boundaries are characterized by tectonic plates moving apart. This process creates space, often leading to magma rising from the mantle to form new crust. For example, mid - ocean ridges are formed at divergent boundaries. In contrast, plates moving toward each other describe convergent boundaries (e.g., subduction zones), and plates sliding past each other horizontally are transform boundaries (e.g., the San Andreas Fault).

Answer:

Plates move apart from each other.