Question

a divergent boundary is different than a convergent boundary in that
plates collide in a divergent boundary and slide next to each other in a convergent boundary.
plates slide next to each other in a divergent boundary and spread apart in a convergent boundary.
plates slide next to each other in a divergent boundary and collide in a convergent boundary.
plates spread apart in a divergent boundary and collide in a convergent boundary.

Explanation:

To solve this, we recall the definitions of plate boundaries:

• Divergent boundaries: Tectonic plates move apart (spread) from each other.
• Convergent boundaries: Tectonic plates collide (move toward each other).
• Transform boundaries (not directly in options here) involve plates sliding past each other.

Now we analyze each option:

1. First option: Incorrect. Divergent boundaries do not involve collision, and convergent boundaries do not involve sliding past (that’s transform).
2. Second option: Incorrect. Divergent is not sliding (that’s transform), and convergent is not spreading (divergent is spreading).
3. Third option: Incorrect. Divergent boundaries do not involve sliding (that’s transform).
4. Fourth option: Correct. Matches the definitions: divergent = spread apart, convergent = collide.

Answer:

D. plates spread apart in a divergent boundary and collide in a convergent boundary.