What is subduction zone?

A subduction zone is a region on Earth's crust where two tectonic plates collide, with one plate being forced beneath the other into the mantle. This process is known as subduction, and it typically occurs at convergent plate boundaries where an oceanic plate meets a continental plate or another oceanic plate. Subduction zones are associated with intense geological activity, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of mountain ranges.

A subduction zone is a region of the Earth's crust where one tectonic plate moves under another tectonic plate and sinks into the mantle. Subduction zones are often associated with earthquakes, volcanoes, and the formation of mountain ranges.

When two tectonic plates collide, one plate is usually denser than the other. The denser plate will subduct beneath the less dense plate, sinking into the mantle. As the subducting plate descends, it melts and releases magma. This magma can rise to the surface and erupt as volcanoes.

Subduction zones are also associated with earthquakes. As the subducting plate moves beneath the other plate, it creates friction. This friction can cause the plates to stick together. When the plates eventually break free, they can release a sudden burst of energy in the form of an earthquake.

Subduction zones are responsible for the formation of some of the Earth's most dramatic mountain ranges. As the subducting plate descends, it can drag the overlying plate down with it. This can cause the overlying plate to buckle and fold, forming mountains.

Subduction zones are an important part of the Earth's tectonic system. They play a role in the recycling of the Earth's crust and the formation of new landmasses.