Question

Which one of the following events represents the termination of the Wilson Cycle in Plate Tectonics?

• A. Ocean-continent subduction
• B. Continent-continent collision
• C. Continental rifting
• D. Seafloor spreading

Hint:

- Beginning of Wilson Cycle → Continental rifting.
- Middle stage → Seafloor spreading and subduction.
- End of Wilson Cycle → Continent–continent collision → mountain belts (e.g., Himalayas).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Wilson Cycle.
The Wilson Cycle describes the opening and closing of ocean basins through plate tectonic processes. Its stages are:
1. Continental rifting → formation of a rift valley.
2. Seafloor spreading → formation of a new ocean basin.
3. Ocean basin widening → passive margins develop.
4. Convergence begins → subduction of oceanic crust.
5. Ocean basin closes → arc–continent or ocean–continent collisions occur.
6. Termination → continent–continent collision leads to formation of large mountain belts (e.g., Himalayas, Alps).
Step 2: Evaluating the options.
- (A) Ocean–continent subduction → Occurs during convergence but does not end the cycle.
- (B) Continent–continent collision → Marks the final stage, leading to mountain building and the termination of the Wilson Cycle.
- (C) Continental rifting → Represents the beginning of a new Wilson Cycle, not termination.
- (D) Seafloor spreading → Occurs after rifting and represents the ocean basin opening stage.
Step 3: Final Answer.
Thus, the Wilson Cycle terminates with: \[ \boxed{\text{Continent–continent collision (Option B)}} \]