What geological process involves the sinking of denser oceanic lithosphere beneath an overriding plate?

The geological process that involves the sinking of denser oceanic lithosphere beneath an overriding plate is known as subduction, which occurs at convergent boundaries. In this context, when two tectonic plates collide, the denser oceanic plate is forced down into the mantle underneath the lighter continental plate. This subduction process is critical in the cycling of materials within the Earth and leads to various geological phenomena, such as the formation of deep ocean trenches, volcanic arcs, and mountain ranges.

At convergent boundaries, the interactions between the plates can lead to significant geological activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The movement of the plates during subduction contributes to the rejuvenation of the mantle material, ultimately influencing plate tectonics. Understanding this process is essential to grasp the dynamics of Earth's lithosphere and the ongoing changes that shape our planet.