subduction zone graphic
Detailed Description
Schematic Cross Section of a Typical Subduction Zone: When tectonic plates converge (illustrated by the thick black arrows on either side of the image), one plate slides beneath the upper plate, or subducts, descending into the Earth’s mantle at rates of 2 to 8 centimeters (1–3 inches) per year (red-brown slab with skinny arrow shows direction of motion).
Sources/Usage
Public Domain.
Related
Introduction to Subduction Zones: Amazing Events in Subduction Zones
The Earth’s many tectonic plates can be thousands of miles across and underlie both continents and oceans. These plates collide, slide past, and move apart from each other. Where they collide and one plate is thrust beneath another (a subduction zone), the most powerful earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and landslides occur.
Related
Introduction to Subduction Zones: Amazing Events in Subduction Zones
The Earth’s many tectonic plates can be thousands of miles across and underlie both continents and oceans. These plates collide, slide past, and move apart from each other. Where they collide and one plate is thrust beneath another (a subduction zone), the most powerful earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and landslides occur.