Plate Tectonics / Volcanism

Kick 'em Jenny is an active submarine volcano in the Grenadines that rises above the surrounding floor of the Caribbean Sea. As the southernmost active volcano in the Lesser Antilles volcanic arc and the only active submarine volcano, it stands as a unique geological wonder beneath the surface of the Caribbean Sea.

The Altiplano—Puna volcanic complex is a testament to the awe-inspiring geological processes shaping the southern portion of the Altiplano—Puna plateau in the central Andes. It spans Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile and was formed when the Nazca Plate subducted beneath the South American Plate. The complex boasts diverse volcanic features and is the largest active magma reservoir. Scientific exploration continues to unravel the region's geological history, revealing insights into subterranean processes.

The Andean Volcanic Belt, along South America's western coast, forms as the Nazca and Antarctic plates subduct beneath the South American Plate. This process generates various volcanic zones, illustrating the intricate interplay of Earth's crustal plates. The belt showcases diverse geological phenomena, from the hazards in the Northern Volcanic Zone to the silicic systems in the Central Volcanic Zone and the glaciated stratovolcanoes in the Austral Volcanic Zone.

The Antarctic Plate, situated beneath Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, is a significant tectonic player. Its diverse interactions with neighboring plates contribute to the dynamic geological processes in the region. The plate's movements, rotations, and formation of new oceanic crust showcase its influential role in shaping the Antarctic landscape.

The Caribbean Plate, a predominantly oceanic tectonic plate, extends its influence beneath Central America and the Caribbean Sea off South America's northern coast. This expansive plate interconnects with the North American Plate, South American Plate, Nazca Plate, and Cocos Plate, creating a mosaic of seismic activity, including earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.

The Caribbean Sea contains a remarkable feature beneath its surface, known as the Cayman Trench and the Cayman Ridge. The Cayman Trench, also known as the Cayman Trough, Bartlett Deep, or Bartlett Trough, is a submarine trench on the floor of the western Caribbean Sea between Jamaica and the southeastern tip of Cuba. The Cayman Ridge is an undersea mountain range on the northern margin of the Cayman Trough and includes the Cayman Islands.

The Central America Volcanic Arc, also known as the Central Volcanic Range, is a mesmerizing chain of volcanic formations spanning from Guatemala to northern Panama. These volcanic formations range from major stratovolcanoes to lava domes and cinder cones. The volcanic arc unfolds parallel to the Pacific coastline of the Central American Isthmus, offering insight into the dynamic forces shaping the region.

The Chile Triple Junction is where the South American, Nazca and Antarctic tectonic plates meet, marked by subduction and divergence. The Taitao Peninsula, extending westward, features diverse landscapes and significant ecological importance. The Tres Montes Peninsula, located southwest, contributes unique vegetation and geological features. Together, they tell a captivating story of tectonic convergence and spreading dynamics, showcasing the Earth's ever-evolving geological saga.

The Cocos Plate is an oceanic tectonic plate located beneath the Pacific Ocean, just off the west coast of Central America. It plays a crucial role in shaping the geological dynamics of the region. This plate has a triangular shape and is relatively small in size. Its name comes from Cocos Island, the only island within its boundaries that emerges from the ocean.

The Lesser Antilles Volcanic Arc is a chain of volcanic islands stretching from the Virgin Islands to Grenada in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It is formed by the subduction of the North American Plate beneath the Caribbean Plate, which creates the volcanoes that make up the islands. This volcanic arc, along with other geological forces, contributes to the shaping of the Caribbean Sea.