Volcanic island arcs are curved chains of volcanic islands formed at convergent plate boundaries, where one tectonic plate subducts beneath another. This geological phenomenon occurs when oceanic crust is forced down into the mantle, leading to melting and the creation of magma, which then rises to the surface, resulting in volcanic activity. These arcs often consist of a series of islands, many of which are characterized by steep, rugged terrain and active or dormant volcanoes.
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