How are faults that occur in middle of tectonic plates different from plate boundaries?
Faults that occur in the middle of tectonic plates are known as intraplate faults, while faults that occur along the boundaries of tectonic plates are known as plate boundaries.
Intraplate faults are less common and typically have less frequent and less intense seismic activity compared to plate boundary faults. Plate boundaries are characterized by high levels of tectonic activity, leading to more frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.
The stresses and movements that cause intraplate faults are often related to residual stresses from past tectonic events, mantle dynamics, or other localized factors. Plate boundary faults, on the other hand, are directly influenced by the interactions between tectonic plates, such as subduction zones, transform faults, and spreading centers.
Intraplate faults can still pose a risk for earthquakes and other geologic hazards, but they are generally considered less hazardous than faults at plate boundaries. Plate boundaries, on the other hand, are more actively monitored and studied due to their higher likelihood of producing large earthquakes and other destructive events.