1. What is Plate Convergence Angle?

The convergence angle between tectonic plates describes the directional relationship between two plates moving toward each other. This angle helps determine the type of boundary (oblique, orthogonal) and predicts geological features that may form.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses vector mathematics to determine the angle of convergence:

Where:

• \( v_1 \) — Velocity of Plate 1 (cm/year)
• \( \alpha \) — Movement angle of Plate 1 (degrees)
• \( v_2 \) — Velocity of Plate 2 (cm/year)
• \( \beta \) — Movement angle of Plate 2 (degrees)
• \( \theta \) — Resulting convergence angle (degrees)

Explanation: The formula calculates the angle between the velocity vectors of two converging plates.

3. Importance of Convergence Angle

Details: The convergence angle determines whether subduction will be oblique or head-on, influencing mountain building, earthquake patterns, and volcanic activity at the boundary.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter velocities in cm/year and angles in degrees (0-360). Angles should be measured relative to a consistent reference direction (typically north).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical plate velocity?
A: Most plates move 1-10 cm/year, with Pacific Plate among fastest at ~7-10 cm/year.

Q2: How do I measure the angle of plate movement?
A: Angle is measured clockwise from north (0°=north, 90°=east, etc.) based on GPS data.

Q3: What does a 0° convergence angle mean?
A: Pure head-on collision (orthogonal convergence), typically resulting in simple subduction or continental collision.

Q4: What does a 90° convergence angle mean?
A: Pure transform motion (plates sliding past each other) with no convergence component.

Q5: How does oblique convergence affect subduction?
A: Creates partitioned deformation with both thrust and strike-slip components, often producing complex fault systems.