Which type of boundary is characterized by tectonic plates sliding past one another?

The type of boundary where tectonic plates slide past one another is known as a transform boundary. At transform boundaries, the motion of the plates is primarily horizontal, meaning that one plate moves sideways relative to another. This lateral movement can lead to the formation of faults, and the friction that occurs during this sliding can cause earthquakes. Famous examples of transform boundaries include the San Andreas Fault in California.

In contrast, divergent boundaries are locations where plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust, typically found at mid-ocean ridges. Convergent boundaries occur where plates push toward one another, which can result in one plate being forced beneath another (subduction) or causing mountain ranges to form. A subduction zone specifically describes the area where one tectonic plate is being pushed under another, which is a specific type of convergent boundary rather than a sliding motion.