Divergent Boundary
Definition
A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, resulting in the creation of new crust as magma rises to fill the gap.
Related terms
Mid-Ocean Ridge: A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by the upwelling of magma at a divergent boundary, creating new oceanic crust.
Rift Valley: A rift valley is a long, narrow depression that forms when continental lithosphere stretches and thins at a divergent boundary.
Seafloor Spreading: Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at a divergent boundary as magma wells up and solidifies.
"Divergent Boundary" appears in:
Study guides (1)
AP Environmental Science - 4.1 Tectonic Plates
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
About Us
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
Stay Connected
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
About Us
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.