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.