What occurs at a convergent boundary?

At a convergent boundary, tectonic plates move towards each other, leading to various geological phenomena. This movement can result in one plate being forced beneath another in a process known as subduction, which is responsible for the formation of deep ocean trenches and volcanic arcs. When two continental plates collide, they may create mountain ranges due to the intense pressure and folding of the Earth's crust. This convergence causes significant geological activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, as the plates interact.

The dynamic nature of these interactions distinguishes convergent boundaries from divergent boundaries, where plates move apart, and transform boundaries, where plates slide past each other. At convergent boundaries, the intense pressure and friction from colliding plates can lead to some of the most powerful seismic activity on the planet, showcasing the significant impact of this type of boundary on Earth's geological features.