What causes earthquakes?

Learn about the various factors that can trigger earthquakes, include tectonic plate movements, volcanic activity, and human-induced causes. Understand the science behind seismic events and why they occur.

What causes earthquakes?
Kevin Oct-05-2024 04:30:04
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What causes earthquakes?

Earthquakes are mainly caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface. The Earth's outer shell is divided into several large plates that float on the semi-fluid mantle layer. When these plates move past each other, collide, or separate, it can result in seismic activity.

Tectonic plate movements

One of the primary causes of earthquakes is the shifting of these massive tectonic plates. When plates grind against each other along fault lines, stress builds up until it is released in the form of an earthquake.

Volcanic activity

Volcanic eruptions can also trigger earthquakes. As magma rises through the Earth's crust, it can cause the surrounding rocks to fracture and lead to seismic events.

Human-induced causes

Human activities such as mining, reservoir-induced seismicity from filling large reservoirs, and hydraulic fracturing (fracking) can also cause earthquakes. These induced seismic events are typically smaller in magnitude but can still pose risks to infrastructure and communities.

Overall, earthquakes are natural disasters that result from the complex interactions of geological activities. Understanding the causes of earthquakes is crucial for earthquake research and preparedness efforts to mitigate the impacts of seismic events. Seismic waves are the means through which the energy is transmitted during an earthquake, causing the ground to shake violently.

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Deepak
20 Ques 1 Ans
answered 05 Oct 2024

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