MCQ Detailed View

The elastic rebound theory is a fundamental concept in geology that explains the cause of earthquakes. Proposed by Harry Fielding Reid after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, the theory describes how stress accumulates in the Earth's crust and how its sudden release generates seismic waves.

According to the theory, rocks along a fault line deform elastically when tectonic forces push them beyond their normal position. Over time, stress builds up as the rocks bend, storing potential energy. When the stress exceeds the strength of the rocks, they suddenly break or slip along the fault. This rapid release of stored elastic energy causes the ground to shake, producing an earthquake.

Key points about elastic rebound theory:

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  Faults are fractures in the Earth's crust where movement occurs.

  
  


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  Elastic deformation allows rocks to store energy without permanent change until they reach a breaking point.

  
  


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  The sudden movement releases energy in the form of seismic waves, which travel through the Earth and cause vibrations felt on the surface.

  
  


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  The cycle of stress accumulation and release repeats over time, explaining why some faults experience recurring earthquakes.

  
  

This theory does not explain the formation of rocks or the structure of solids; instead, it specifically addresses the mechanism behind earthquakes. Understanding this principle is crucial in seismology, earthquake engineering, and disaster preparedness, as it helps scientists assess fault activity and predict earthquake-prone regions.

In summary, elastic rebound theory explains the causes of earthquakes through the sudden snapping of stressed rocks along faults, providing a clear scientific basis for understanding seismic activity and its impact on the Earth's surface.