Concept Breakdown: Earthquakes are a result of seismic activity, mainly occurring along clearly defined, linear patterns that align with plate boundaries.

Real World Examples: Picture the vast Atlantic Ocean. Right in the middle, there's a clear line of earthquakes associated with the Mid-Atlantic Ridge-a constructive plate boundary. Another hotspot for quakes is around the Pacific Ocean.

Concept Breakdown: Volcanoes mostly pop up at plate boundaries, but they also form above hotspots (the exception to the rule strikes again!).

Real World Examples: Think about the Pacific Ring of Fire-it's home to around 75% of Earth’s 550 historically active volcanoes. Picture a globetrotting trip from Mt Pinatubo (Philippines) to Mt Unzen (Japan) to Mt Agung (Java) to Mt Chichon (Mexico) to Mt St Helens (USA), and finally Nevado del Ruiz (Colombia)-all are part of the ring of fire. Other active areas are Iceland, Montserrat in the Caribbean, and Mt Nyiragongo in Congo.

Special Case: The Hawaiian Islands, unlike most, are located in the middle of the ocean, and are formed due to a hotspot or mantle plume—a jet of hot material rising from deep within the mantle.