Question

12 infer a volcano forms near a tectonic plate boundary. what can you infer about the formation of this volcano?

Explanation:

Step1: Recall plate - tectonics

At convergent plate boundaries, one plate subducts beneath the other.

Step2: Consider the subduction process

When an oceanic plate subducts beneath a continental or another oceanic plate, the subducted plate heats up and releases water into the overlying mantle.

Step3: Analyze mantle melting

The addition of water lowers the melting point of the mantle rocks, causing them to melt.

Step4: Explain magma rise

The molten rock (magma) is less dense than the surrounding rocks, so it rises towards the surface.

Step5: Describe volcano formation

When the magma reaches the surface, it erupts and forms a volcano.

Answer:

The volcano likely formed due to subduction at the tectonic - plate boundary. When one plate subducts beneath another, water is released from the subducted plate into the mantle, causing mantle rocks to melt. The resulting magma rises to the surface and erupts to form the volcano.