Question

select the best answer for the question.

1. when two plates form a subduction zone, which plate will subduct?

○ a. both plates are equally likely to subduct.
○ b. the continental plate
○ c. the denser plate
○ d. the less dense plate

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Explanation:

In a subduction zone, the key factor determining which plate subducts is density. Oceanic plates are denser than continental plates in most cases of subduction (e.g., oceanic - continental or oceanic - oceanic subduction). The denser plate sinks below the less dense one because of gravitational forces and the nature of plate tectonics. Option A is wrong as plates don't have equal likelihood. Option B is wrong because continental plates are less dense and usually don't subduct (they override). Option D is wrong as the less dense plate would be on top, not subducting. So the denser plate subducts.

Answer:

C. The denser plate