Describe the motion that takes place on a transform boundary. (D)

A transform boundary is a type of tectonic plate boundary where two plates slide past one another horizontally. These boundaries are also called conservative boundaries because they don't create or destroy the Earth's lithosphere. It is important to note that these types of boundaries can cause earthquakes due to the friction generated between the sliding plates.

At a transform boundary, the motion can be classified into two main types: strike-slip motion and vertical motion. 1. Strike-slip motion: This is the most common motion observed along transform boundaries. In this motion, the plates slide past each other horizontally. As the plates move, they create what is called a "fault," which is a break in the Earth's crust where one side of the fault moves relative to the other side. The horizontal motion along these faults results in the earthquake activity associated with transform boundaries. An example of a major strike-slip fault is the San Andreas Fault in California, USA. 2. Vertical motion: Vertical motion along transform boundaries is less common than strike-slip motion. In this motion, one plate slides up or down relative to the other plate. Although vertical motion is not as dominant at transform boundaries as strike-slip motion, it can still cause significant changes in the landscape, creating features like cliffs or steep valleys along the boundary.

While transform boundaries don't create or destroy lithosphere like convergent (colliding plates) or divergent (separating plates) boundaries, they can still have significant effects on the Earth's surface and human infrastructure. The motion along these boundaries can: 1. Cause earthquakes: As previously mentioned, the friction generated during the sliding of plates along transform boundaries can result in earthquakes. These earthquakes can cause significant damage and loss of life, particularly in urban areas. 2. Create distinctive landscape features: The motion along transform boundaries can cause the formation of distinctive surface features such as linear valleys, fractured rock formations, and offset streams. 3. Affect human infrastructure: The motion and earthquake activity along transform boundaries can damage structures like buildings, bridges, and roads. Efforts to build infrastructure in these areas must take into account the potential for motion along the transform boundary. In summary, a transform boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally, resulting in either strike-slip or vertical motion. These motions can cause earthquakes, create unique landscape features, and affect human infrastructure.