A transform plate boundary is primarily characterized by two tectonic plates sliding past each other horizontally. Unlike convergent or divergent boundaries, where plates move towards or away from each other, transform boundaries involve lateral movement. This movement can cause significant geological activity, including earthquakes.
One of the most well-known examples of a transform plate boundary is the San Andreas Fault in California. Here, the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate grind past one another. The friction between the plates can lead to a buildup of stress, which, when released, results in earthquakes.
These boundaries are also associated with distinct geological features, such as fault lines. However, they don’t typically create volcanic activity like convergent boundaries do, as there is no subduction involved. Instead, the primary geological concern at transform boundaries is the seismic activity generated by the movement of the tectonic plates.