Question

according to the elastic rebound theory, what is the direct cause of an earthquake? the transmission of seismic waves through the earth’s core. the slow movement of tectonic plates. the formation of new faults in the earth’s lithosphere. the sudden release of energy in rocks when they snap back to their original shape.

Explanation:

The Elastic Rebound Theory explains that earthquakes occur due to the sudden release of energy when rocks, which were under stress and deformed, snap back to their original shape. This release of energy causes the ground to shake. The other options: transmission of seismic waves is a result, not the cause; slow movement of tectonic plates is part of the stress - building process, not the direct cause; formation of new faults is not the direct cause as per this theory.

Answer:

The sudden release of energy of rocks when they snap back to their original shape. (Assuming the last option's full text is "The sudden release of energy of rocks when they snap back to their original shape" based on the Elastic Rebound Theory)