Why is observing a line of volcanoes near a deep-ocean trench a significant finding for geologists studying plate interactions?

It proves that all volcanoes are originally formed deep underwater.

It suggests that these features are completely unrelated but just happened to form in the same geographical location by chance.

It indicates an active tectonic plate boundary.

It shows that the Earth's crust is equally thick everywhere.

In the scientific method, what is the main role of identifying spatial patterns of earthquakes and volcanoes?

To collect evidence for a hypothesis.

To immediately stop all geologic activity.

To prove that previous scientific ideas were all wrong.

Because any volcano found by itself is scientifically proven to be dormant and no longer of geological interest.

Because its location proves that plate tectonic theory is incorrect.

It suggests a different formation mechanism, such as a mantle hotspot.

Because volcanoes in the middle of continents are not made of rock.

The chemical composition of rocks from different volcanoes.

The arrangement and distribution of geological features across a specific area.

The timing of when different earthquakes happen over several years.

The depth at which magma is formed beneath the Earth's crust.

The planet's core must be completely solid and cold.

The planet is covered entirely by a single, unbroken crustal plate.

The planet likely has a system of moving tectonic plates similar to Earth's, where one plate is sliding under another.

The planet's surface is geologically inactive and has not changed for billions of years.