In plate tectonics, what is the term for a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock where most earthquakes occur?
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Fault
Earthquakes occur when tectonic plates get stuck due to friction while trying to move past each other. When the stress finally overcomes the friction, energy is released in seismic waves that shake the ground.
Also asked as:
- In geology, what name is given to the break in the Earth's crust between two blocks of rock where movement and earthquakes typically occur?