Opens in a new tab

Letter TGeology glossary

Transform Boundary

A transform boundary is a type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally. Transform boundaries are significant in plate tectonics for understanding the movement and interaction of tectonic plates, as well as the formation of earthquakes along these boundaries. 

Diagram of a transform fault boundary
Fig. 1 Diagram of a transform fault boundary

Source Gordon, R. G., & Stein, S. (1992). “Global Tectonics and the Wilson Cycle.” Geological Society of America Bulletin, 104(8), 1073-1083.

join.me

Geology made clear, in your inbox.

Get clear, visual explainers on rocks, minerals, deep time, and the most fascinating parts of Earth science from Geoscopy.