What phenomenon occurs during subduction?

Subduction is a geological phenomenon that occurs when one tectonic plate slides beneath another. This process generally takes place at convergent plate boundaries, where two plates come together. The denser oceanic plate is often forced down into the mantle beneath the lighter continental plate.

This movement can lead to significant geological activity such as the formation of deep ocean trenches, volcanic arcs, and earthquakes. The subducting plate melts and contributes to magma formation, which can result in volcanic eruptions on the overriding plate. Understanding this process is crucial for grasping how tectonic forces shape the Earth's landscape and produce various geological features and events.