Seismic gaps are places where scientists think that ________.
A)faults are storing elastic strain
B)faults are storing stress
C)faults are creeping smoothly
D)earthquakes are unlikely to occur

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Seismic gaps are areas along a fault where no earthquakes have occurred for a long time, leading scientists to believe that elastic strain is building up and an earthquake is likely to occur in the future. Therefore, option A, fault storing elastic strain, is the best choice. Option B, fault storing stress, is incorrect because storing stress is not a direct cause of seismic gaps. Option C, fault creeping smoothly, is also incorrect because seismic gaps are characterized by a lack of earthquake activity, indicating that the fault is not moving smoothly. Option D, earthquakes are unlikely to occur, is also incorrect because seismic gaps are associated with an increased likelihood of an earthquake occurring.

Seismic Gaps Are Places Where Scientists Think That ________