what causes earthquakes
What causes earthquakes
Answer: Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust that creates seismic waves. This energy release is generally the result of the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. The Earth’s outer shell is divided into several tectonic plates that are constantly moving. When these plates interact, they can cause stress to build up along fault lines. Once the stress overcomes the strength of the rocks, it leads to a sudden release of energy in the form of an earthquake. This energy radiates outward in the form of seismic waves, shaking the ground and causing the characteristic effects of an earthquake. Factors such as plate movements, volcanic activity, and human activities like mining or reservoir-induced seismicity can also contribute to the occurrence of earthquakes.