Question

how do plate tectonics best explain the occurrence of earthquakes? a. stress builds up and is released as parts of earths crust slide past each other at transform plate boundaries. b. stress builds up and is released as parts of earths crust crash into each other. c. stress build up and is released as parts of earths crust slip below convergent boundaries. d. stress builds up and is released as parts of earths crust move away from each other at divergent boundaries.

Explanation:

Earthquakes often occur at plate boundaries. At transform boundaries, tectonic plates slide past each other. Stress accumulates and when released, it causes an earthquake. Option B is too general, option C describes subduction at convergent boundaries which is more related to volcanic activity and some earthquakes but not the best - general explanation for earthquakes at transform boundaries. Option D describes divergence which is more related to the creation of new crust rather than the main cause of most earthquakes.

Answer:

A. Stress builds up and is released as parts of Earth's crust slide past each other at transform plate boundaries.