Scientists study and record seismic data and volcanic activity in order to support the theory of plate tectonics. The evidence proves that there is a direct relationship between seismic activity, volcanic activity, and lithospheric plate boundaries.
Volcanic Activity and Plate Tectonics:
- The interaction of plate boundaries results in an increased frequency or number of volcanic activity at these locations.
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The location of some major volcanoes across the globe is shown in the diagram below.
It is relatively easy to see the relationships between volcanoes and some types of plate boundaries.
It is relatively easy to see the relationships between volcanoes and some types of plate boundaries.
Pacific Ring of Fire
Most earthquakes and volcanic eruptions do not strike randomly but generally occur in specific areas along plate boundaries. One such area is the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the Pacific Plate meets many surrounding tectonic plates.
The Ring of Fire is the most seismically and volcanically active zone in the world. Seventy-five percent of Earth’s volcanoes—more than 450 volcanoes—are located along the Ring of Fire. Ninety percent of Earth’s earthquakes occur along its path. The volcanoes and earthquakes along the Ring of Fire is caused by the amount of movement of tectonic plates in this area. Along much of the Ring of Fire, plates overlap at convergent boundaries called subduction zones.
The Ring of Fire is the most seismically and volcanically active zone in the world. Seventy-five percent of Earth’s volcanoes—more than 450 volcanoes—are located along the Ring of Fire. Ninety percent of Earth’s earthquakes occur along its path. The volcanoes and earthquakes along the Ring of Fire is caused by the amount of movement of tectonic plates in this area. Along much of the Ring of Fire, plates overlap at convergent boundaries called subduction zones.
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Types of Volcanoes
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Topic Tips
- The most explosive volcanoes generally occur along convergent plate boundaries where subduction occurs.
- The Pacific Ring of Fire is the most seismically and volcanically active zone in the world where many plates overlap at convergent boundaries called subduction zones.