Plate Tectonics — Test

Question 17 • Earth and Space Science

Which statement best explains the difference in volcanic activity between the Andes Mountains and the Himalayas?

Answer

The Andes form from oceanic–continental subduction, producing melt, while the Himalayas form from continental collision, which generates little surface volcanism.

The Himalayas are lower in elevation than the Andes, preventing magma from reaching eruption depth.

The Andes are older than the Himalayas, so magma has had more time to reach the surface.

Both regions form from plate divergence, but climate conditions in the Himalayas limit volcanic activity.

Explanation

The Andes lie above a subduction zone where oceanic crust sinks beneath continental crust. Water released from the sinking plate helps melt mantle rock, generating magma and volcanoes. The Himalayas formed mainly when two continental plates collided; this type of collision produces little surface volcanism. Therefore, the best explanation is that the Andes form through oceanic–continental subduction while the Himalayas form through continental collision.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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