GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Earthquakes are the result of sudden movement along faults within the Earth. The movement releases stored-up ‘elastic strain’ energy in the form of seismic waves, which propagate through the Earth and cause the ground surface to shake.

Detailed explanation-2: -So, the correct answer is ‘shifting of tectonic plates’

Detailed explanation-3: -This gradual accumulation and release of stress and strain is now referred to as the “elastic rebound theory” of earthquakes. Most earthquakes are the result of the sudden elastic rebound of previously stored energy.

Detailed explanation-4: -While most earthquakes are caused by the slipping of tectonic plates, minor earthquakes can also be caused by volcanic eruptions, collapse of rock formations on Earth’s surface, or underground explosions.

Detailed explanation-5: -The elastic rebound theory is an explanation for how energy is spread during earthquakes. As rocks on oppo-site sides of a fault are subjected to force and shift, they accumulate energy and slowly deform until their inter-nal strength is exceeded.