Question 40

There is low risk of volcanoes and high risk of earthquakes.

In areas where two continental plates slide past one another, the primary geological activity associated with this boundary is a high risk of earthquakes, while the risk of volcanic activity is low.

A) There is low risk of both volcanoes and earthquakes.

This option is incorrect because it suggests that both types of geological activity are minimal. However, the sliding motion of continental plates typically leads to significant stress accumulation and eventual release in the form of earthquakes.

B) There is low risk of volcanoes and high risk of earthquakes.

This option accurately reflects the geological dynamics at transform boundaries where continental plates move laterally. The absence of subduction means volcanic activity is not prevalent, but the friction between the plates can lead to frequent and powerful earthquakes.

C) There is high risk of volcanoes and low risk of earthquakes.

This statement is incorrect as it misrepresents the nature of transform boundaries. Such boundaries do not produce significant volcanic activity due to the lack of magma formation; instead, they are characterized primarily by earthquakes.

D) There is high risk of both volcanoes and earthquakes.

This option is also incorrect because it implies that both phenomena occur at high rates along this boundary. While earthquakes are indeed frequent, the geological conditions do not favor volcanic activity, which is typically associated with convergent boundaries.

Conclusion

The correct answer is B, as it encapsulates the nature of transform boundaries where continental plates slide past each other, leading to a high risk of earthquakes and a low risk of volcanic activity. All other options misrepresent the geological processes at play, failing to recognize the unique characteristics of transform plate interactions.