Here's why:

* Divergent boundaries are where tectonic plates move apart.

* As the plates separate, magma from the Earth's mantle rises to the surface.

* This magma cools and solidifies, creating new oceanic crust.

* The process of new crust formation pushes the plates further apart, resulting in the formation of a mid-ocean ridge.

Key Features of Mid-Ocean Ridges:

* Underwater mountain range: Mid-ocean ridges are the longest mountain ranges on Earth, but they are submerged beneath the ocean.

* Volcanic activity: They are characterized by active volcanism, as magma continuously rises to fill the gap between the separating plates.

* Hydrothermal vents: These are areas where hot, mineral-rich water is released from the ocean floor, supporting unique ecosystems.

* Earthquakes: The movement of the plates along divergent boundaries causes frequent earthquakes.