Answer :
A subduction zone is a region of the Earth's crust where one tectonic plate slides beneath another plate. This process occurs at convergent plate boundaries, where two tectonic plates are moving towards each other. In a subduction zone, the denser oceanic plate typically sinks beneath the lighter continental plate.
Subduction zones are closely related to volcanic activity. As the subducting plate descends into the Earth's mantle, it experiences increased temperatures and pressures, which cause it to melt. The melting generates magma, which is less dense than the surrounding solid rock, causing it to rise through the crust. If the magma reaches the Earth's surface, it can form volcanoes, creating volcanic arcs that are often parallel to the subduction zone.
In addition to volcanic activity, earthquakes are common in subduction zones. The movement of the tectonic plates creates stress and friction as they interact with each other. Over time, this stress builds until it exceeds the strength of the rocks, leading to a sudden release of energy in the form of an earthquake. The earthquakes can vary in size and depth, but subduction zones are known for producing some of the world's most powerful earthquakes.
Subduction zones are closely related to volcanic activity. As the subducting plate descends into the Earth's mantle, it experiences increased temperatures and pressures, which cause it to melt. The melting generates magma, which is less dense than the surrounding solid rock, causing it to rise through the crust. If the magma reaches the Earth's surface, it can form volcanoes, creating volcanic arcs that are often parallel to the subduction zone.
In addition to volcanic activity, earthquakes are common in subduction zones. The movement of the tectonic plates creates stress and friction as they interact with each other. Over time, this stress builds until it exceeds the strength of the rocks, leading to a sudden release of energy in the form of an earthquake. The earthquakes can vary in size and depth, but subduction zones are known for producing some of the world's most powerful earthquakes.
