THE EXAMS POINTThree plate-boundary patterns
Begin at the centre. Explore a branch, explain its connection, then test your recall. Tap any branch heading to fold or expand it.
In recall mode, focus or tap a branch to reveal its explanation. Branches group related ideas; they do not imply a chronological sequence.
Three plate-boundary patterns
01 · Divergent
Plates move apart; new oceanic crust may form at spreading ridges.
02 · Convergent
Plates move towards each other; subduction or continental collision may occur.
03 · Transform
Plates slide laterally past each other; earthquakes are common along active faults.
Connect the branches
Classify the relative motion first, then infer likely landforms and hazards.
Avoid the exam trap
Not every convergent boundary produces the same volcanic pattern; continental collision differs from oceanic subduction.
Test yourself: Which type of relative motion characterises a transform boundary?
Lateral sliding of adjacent plates past one another.
A concise revision aid with simplified connections. It supports the full chapter and primary references; it does not replace them.