Step 1: Understanding Divergent Plate Boundaries.
Divergent plate boundaries are regions where two tectonic plates move away from each other. This causes the formation of mid-ocean ridges, where new oceanic crust is created as magma rises from the mantle.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) Ridge: Correct — A ridge is a key feature of divergent plate boundaries, such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
(B) Trench: Incorrect — Trenches are typically associated with convergent plate boundaries, not divergent.
(C) Island arc: Incorrect — Island arcs form at convergent boundaries where oceanic plates subduct beneath each other.
(D) Accretionary prism: Incorrect — These are typically found at convergent boundaries where subduction occurs.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) Ridge, as it is associated with divergent plate boundaries.