A ________ is a linear feature in continental lithosphere where a plate is pulled apart,resulting in a deep valley,extensive faulting and volcanism,and if sustained,division into two plates separated by new oceanic lithosphere.
A) forearc basin
B) volcanic island arc
C) continental rift
D) mid-ocean ridge

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A continental rift is a linear feature where continental lithosphere is being pulled apart, resulting in a deep valley, extensive faulting, and volcanism. If the rifting process is sustained, the continental lithosphere can split apart and be separated by new oceanic lithosphere. This is how new oceans are formed, such as the Atlantic Ocean. The other options, forearc basin and volcanic island arc, are both associated with subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is being forced beneath another. The mid-ocean ridge is also a divergent boundary where two plates are moving away from each other, but it occurs in the middle of the ocean rather than on land.

A ________ Is a Linear Feature in Continental Lithosphere Where