What is the name of the boundary where two tectonic plates move apart?

The boundary where two tectonic plates move apart is called a divergent boundary. At this type of boundary, the plates separate, leading to the formation of new oceanic crust as magma rises to the surface from below the Earth’s crust. This process often creates mid-ocean ridges, which are underwater mountain ranges that arise from these tectonic activities. Additionally, as the plates move apart, volcanic activity can occur, contributing to the growth of new landforms.

This mechanism is in contrast to convergent boundaries, where plates collide, and transform boundaries, where plates slide past each other, causing lateral movement. A fault line, while often related to tectonic activity, specifically refers to fractures in the Earth's crust where blocks of land have moved, which can occur at any type of boundary. Understanding these different plate interactions is crucial for comprehending geological phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.