Which type of boundary is characterized by ocean ridge spreading?

The type of boundary characterized by ocean ridge spreading is a divergent boundary. At divergent boundaries, tectonic plates move apart from each other, which allows magma from the mantle to rise and create new oceanic crust. This process is primarily observed along mid-ocean ridges, where the seafloor is being actively created as the plates separate.

Ocean ridges, such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, exemplify this process, as they are locations where two plates diverge, leading not only to the formation of new crust but also to volcanic activity and distinct geological features. The continuous supply of magma leads to the process of sea-floor spreading, resulting in the widening of the ocean basin over geological time.

In contrast, convergent boundaries involve plates moving towards each other, which typically results in subduction zones where one plate is forced under another, often leading to volcanic arcs or mountain range formation. Transform boundaries occur where plates slide past one another laterally, causing earthquakes but not directly creating new crust. Finally, subduction zones involve significant geological processes but do not relate to the spreading of the ocean floor as seen at divergent boundaries.