An earthquake is caused by a sudden slip on a fault. ... When the stress on the edge overcomes the friction, there is an earthquake that releases energy in waves that travel through the earth's crust and cause the shaking that we feel. In California there are two plates - the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate.
- the 5 main cause of earthquakes?
1. Volcanic Eruptions
The main cause of the earthquake is volcanic eruptions. Such type of earthquakes occurs in areas, with frequent volcanic activities. When boiling lava tries to break through the surface of the earth, with the increased pressure of gases, certain movements caused in the earth’s crust.
2. Tectonic Movements
The surface of the earth consists of some plates, comprising of the upper mantle.
3. Geological Faults
A geological fault is known as the displacement of plates of their original plane. The plane can be horizontal or vertical.
4. Man-Made
The interference of man with nature can also become a cause of the earthquake.
5. Minor Causes
Some minor causes such as landslides, avalanches, the collapse of heavy rocks, etc. can also cause minor shockwaves.
