a region of divergence on the Earth's surface (e.g. the mid-ocean ridge).

Lithospheric plate boundary along which two plates of oceanic lithosphere are undergoing separation.

two or more plates move away from each other, exposing hot magma to the surface. The magma hardens and becomes basaltic crust.

An elongated region where two plates are being pulled away from each other. New crust is formed as molten rock is forced upward into the gap. Examples of spreading centers include the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the East African Rift.

An area where two plates are pulling away from each other

See mid-ocean ridge

a fissure separating continental plates, created when the plates move apart.