Here's a breakdown of what happens during subduction:
* Density: Oceanic plates are denser than continental plates. When they collide, the denser oceanic plate bends and slides beneath the less dense continental plate.
* The Trench: The point where the plates meet forms a deep depression called a subduction zone or trench.
* Magma Formation: As the oceanic plate descends, it melts due to the immense pressure and heat. This molten rock, or magma, rises to the surface, creating volcanoes.
* Volcanic Arcs: These volcanoes often form a chain called a volcanic arc parallel to the trench.
* Earthquakes: The movement of the plates during subduction can also cause earthquakes.
Subduction is a major driving force behind plate tectonics and is responsible for many of Earth's geological features, including mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes.
