* Divergent Plate Boundaries: These are areas where tectonic plates are moving apart from each other. The separation creates a gap, and the Earth's crust thins and weakens.

* Formation Process:

* As plates pull apart, the crust stretches and fractures, forming faults.

* Magma from the mantle rises to fill the gaps, causing volcanic activity.

* The land between the faults collapses, creating a depression known as a rift valley.

Examples of Rift Valleys:

* The East African Rift Valley: This is a prime example of a rift valley formed by the separation of the African Plate.

* The Mid-Atlantic Ridge: This underwater mountain range is also a divergent plate boundary and a rift valley.

Key Features of Rift Valleys:

* Fault Scarps: Steep cliffs formed by the movement of tectonic plates.

* Volcanic Activity: Often associated with rift valleys due to the rising magma.

* Elevated Terrain: The surrounding landmass often rises as the rift valley sinks.

* Linear Shape: Rift valleys typically extend for long distances.

Let me know if you want to know more about specific rift valleys!