What occurs at a convergent plate boundary?

At a convergent plate boundary, the defining characteristic is that tectonic plates move toward each other and collide. This interaction can lead to significant geological activity. When two plates converge, one plate may be forced underneath the other in a process known as subduction, which can create deep ocean trenches and lead to volcanic activity. The collision of these plates can also result in the formation of mountain ranges, as the crust is crumpled and thickened where the two plates meet.

This process is responsible for some of the Earth's most dramatic features and seismic activity, such as earthquakes. The movement at convergent boundaries is contrasted with divergent boundaries, where plates move apart, and transform boundaries, where plates slide past each other. Understanding convergent boundaries is crucial for comprehending topics such as plate tectonics, geological formations, and natural disasters.