Question

which of these factors is involved in earthquake formation?
plates getting larger
rocks breaking
stress that decreases
faults that remain stationary

Explanation:

To determine the factor involved in earthquake formation:

• Plates do not get larger in the context of earthquake formation; tectonic plates interact (move, collide, slide) but not grow in a way related to quakes.
• Rocks breaking: Earthquakes occur when stress on rocks (due to tectonic forces) builds up until the rocks break or slip along faults, releasing energy. This matches the process of earthquake formation.
• Stress that decreases would not lead to an earthquake, as quakes result from built - up (increasing) stress.
• Faults that remain stationary do not cause earthquakes; earthquakes are associated with movement (slip) along faults.

Answer:

B. rocks breaking