When oceanic and continental plates collide, the denser oceanic plate descends beneath the continental plate forming a subduction zone. This process creates deep-sea trenches and causes intense volcanic and seismic activity. The volcanic eruptions form island arcs and accretionary wedges, while the subduction process contributes to the formation of fold mountains. These mountain ranges serve as evidence of ancient plate collisions, such as the Andes, Himalayas, and Alps, showcasing the dynamic interplay between Earth’s tectonic plates.
