Earthquakes normally occur because of the movement of tectonic plates. The Earth's lithosphere is divided into several large, rigid plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere below. These plates are continuously moving very slowly, but when they become locked or stuck at their boundaries due to friction, stress and strain builds up over time. Eventually, the accumulated stress becomes too great and the rocks fracture, releasing energy in the form of seismic waves. This sudden release of energy creates vibrations, shaking the ground and causing an earthquake. These earthquakes can occur along plate boundaries, such as transform, convergent, and divergent boundaries, as well as within the interior of tectonic plates. Other factors such as volcanic activity and human activities like underground mining or dam construction can also trigger earthquakes.
