Which process causes the formation of a volcanic arc when oceanic lithosphere subducts beneath continental lithosphere?

💡 Explanation

When oceanic lithosphere subducts, hydration-induced partial melting of the mantle wedge occurs because water released from the subducting slab lowers the mantle's melting point, leading to magma generation and volcanic arc formation. Therefore, partial melting explains arc volcanism, rather than decompression, heating, or isostatic rebound which involve alternative mechanisms.

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