Explain how Earthquakes Occur when Stress Stored in Rocks is Released.

Earthquakes occur when the stored stress in the rock exceeds its strength. Energy is released as the rocks fractures and moves in the form of seismic waves. The energy released causes vibrations creating ground movement in the form of an earthquake. After the stress is suddenly released, the ground moves back to its original position following elastic rebound theory. 

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Answered by Arthur G. Geology tutor

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