In elastic rebound theory,what must occur to produce an earthquake?
A)Enough stress must build up over time on a fault to overcome friction.
B)Rocks must break in order to produce slip on a fault.
C)The ground needs to absorb enough water to lubricate the surface of the fault.
D)Tidal forces need to be at a maximum to increase the energy applied to the fault.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elastic rebound theory proposes that earthquakes are caused by the build-up of stress in the Earth's crust along a fault. When the stress exceeds the strength of the rock, it snaps and produces an earthquake. In other words, rocks must break in order to produce slip on a fault. The other choices of B, C, and D are not essential components of the theory.

In Elastic Rebound Theory,what Must Occur to Produce an Earthquake