Answer to Question #149349 in Physical geography for yann

Question

1. Explain how the process of subduction causes volcanoes to form on destructive (convergent) plate boundaries

Answer 1

Converging plates can be oceanic, continental, or one of each. If both are continental, they will smash together and form a mountain range. If at least one is oceanic, it will subduct. A subducting plate creates volcanoes. The subducting plate heats up as it sinks into the mantle. Also, water is mixed in with the sediments lying on top of the subducting plate. As the sediments subduct, the water rises into the overlying mantle material and lowers its melting point. Melting in the mantle above the subducting plate leads to volcanoes within a continental arc or an island.