Plate Tectonics Questions
Earthquakes are directly related to plate tectonics as they occur due to the movement and interaction of tectonic plates. The Earth's lithosphere is divided into several large plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them. These plates are constantly moving, either colliding, sliding past each other, or moving apart. When the plates interact, they can create stress and pressure along their boundaries. This stress builds up over time until it is released suddenly in the form of an earthquake. Therefore, earthquakes are a result of the movement and interaction of tectonic plates.