Chapter 27, Problem 3TE

To determine

The reason for the generation of earthquakes near plate boundaries

Answer to Problem 3TE

The reason for the generation of earthquakes near plate boundaries is the continental-continental convergence.

Explanation of Solution

When a continental plate collides with an oceanic plate, the denser oceanic plate will subduct under the less dense continental plate. But when two plates of continental crust collide, there is no subduction. This happens because both the plates are made of buoyant granite type rocks. The colliding rocks have similar densities, so neither sinks below the other or no subduction. Instead, convergence between two continental plates is more to break and fold upon each other, making the crust very thick.

Instead, convergence between two continental plates is more to break and fold upon each other, making the crust very thick. The earthquakes are the characteristic feature of a continental-continental convergence.

Conclusion:

Therefore, reason for the generation of earthquakes near plate boundaries is the continental-continental convergence.