What does the term "subduction" refer to in plate tectonics?

Subduction refers to the process where one tectonic plate moves under another and is forced into the mantle due to gravitational pull. This typically occurs at convergent boundaries, where two plates collide, often involving an oceanic plate sinking beneath a continental plate or another oceanic plate. The area where this process happens can lead to significant geological features and activities, such as deep ocean trenches, volcanic arcs, and earthquake zones. The dynamics of subduction not only shape the Earth’s surface but also play a crucial role in the recycling of the Earth's crust, contributing to the rock cycle and influencing the distribution of geological phenomena. Understanding subduction is essential for comprehending many processes in plate tectonics, including the formation of mountain ranges, volcanic eruptions, and seismic activity.