Which mechanism causes large-scale crustal deformation when a continental plate overrides an oceanic plate at a subduction zone?

💡 Explanation

When a continental plate overrides an oceanic plate, complex strain occurs because the convergent boundary compresses and folds the crust resulting in large-scale deformation, mountain ranges and fault systems. Therefore tectonic compression results in deformation, rather than isostatic rebound, gravitational sliding, or thermal expansion, which involve different plate settings or forces.

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