* Density Difference: Oceanic crust is denser than continental crust. This density difference causes the denser oceanic plate to bend and slide beneath the lighter continental plate.
* Formation of Trenches: The bending of the oceanic plate creates a deep depression in the ocean floor called a trench.
* Volcanic Arcs: As the subducted oceanic plate melts, magma rises to the surface and can erupt, forming chains of volcanoes along the continental margin. These are called volcanic arcs.
* Earthquakes: The movement of the plates at the subduction zone generates significant stress, leading to frequent and powerful earthquakes.
In summary:
Oceanic-continental convergent boundaries are characterized by subduction, resulting in the formation of trenches, volcanic arcs, and earthquakes.