Volcanic island arcs and granitic, batholithic zones develop along convergent margins on the overriding plate above an oceanic plate sinking into the mantle.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This statement is true. Volcanic island arcs and granitic, batholithic zones do indeed develop along convergent margins above subduction zones, where an oceanic plate is sinking into the mantle beneath a continental or another oceanic plate. This is because the subducting plate contains water and other volatiles that are released as it sinks deeper into the mantle, leading to partial melting of the mantle and formation of magma. This magma rises to the surface and generates volcanic activity in the form of island arcs or continental volcanic arcs, while the solidified magma chambers underground form granitic, batholithic zones known as plutons.

Volcanic Island Arcs and Granitic, Batholithic Zones Develop Along Convergent