Which of the following is an example of an active continental margin? Coast of Iceland West coast of South America East coast of North America West coast of Africa
Question
Which of the following is an example of an active continental margin? Coast of Iceland West coast of South America East coast of North America West coast of Africa
Solution
The west coast of South America is an example of an active continental margin.
Here's why:
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Continental margins are the edges of the continents where they meet the ocean. These can be categorized into two types: active and passive.
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Active continental margins are often associated with tectonic activity such as earthquakes and volcanoes. This is because they are typically located at the edge of tectonic plates where one plate is being subducted under another.
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The west coast of South America is a prime example of an active continental margin. Here, the Nazca Plate is being subducted under the South American Plate, leading to the Andes mountain range's formation and frequent seismic activity.
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In contrast, the coasts of Iceland, the east coast of North America, and the west coast of Africa are not considered active continental margins. They do not have the same level of tectonic activity as seen on the west coast of South America.
Similar Questions
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