Which is the process by which the sinking plate creates a downward force, dragging the rest of the plate with it*1 pointRidge pushSlab pullConvection

Identifying the Process

The question refers to a geological process that occurs within plate tectonics, which helps explain the movement of tectonic plates.

1. Ridge Push: This process occurs at mid-ocean ridges where the newly formed plates slide down due to gravitational pull. It is not responsible for the dragging of the rest of the plate.

2. Slab Pull: This is the process where a sinking tectonic plate, or slab, creates a downward force, effectively pulling the rest of the plate down with it. This is a dominant force in plate tectonics and is responsible for the dragging of plates.

3. Convection: While convection currents in the mantle do contribute to plate movement, they do not specifically describe the process of a sinking plate creating a downward force.

Conclusion

The correct answer is Slab Pull. This process involves the gravitational sinking of a denser tectonic plate which drags the rest of the plate downwards, influencing plate movement.