Understanding Tectonic Plates and Earthquake Dynamics

The Earth's lithosphere is fragmented into tectonic plates. These rigid slabs float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere underneath, constantly moving, albeit at a slow pace, driven by forces like mantle convection.

Earthquakes primarily occur near plate boundaries. At these junctures, plates may diverge, converge, or slide past each other, accumulating stress that, when released, causes earthquakes.

When plates converge, one may be forced under another in a process called subduction. This can generate powerful earthquakes and even volcanic activity, as seen in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

At transform boundaries, plates slide sideways. The San Andreas Fault is a prime example, where the Pacific and North American plates grind past each other, leading to frequent seismic activity.

Plates also move apart at divergent boundaries, creating new crust as magma rises and solidifies. This process can trigger earthquakes, typically less violent than at convergent boundaries.

Not all earthquakes occur at plate boundaries. 'Hotspots' like Hawaii see volcanic activity and earthquakes due to mantle plumes that melt and break the overlying crust.

Despite advances in seismology, accurately predicting the timing and magnitude of earthquakes remains elusive. However, understanding tectonics helps identify regions at risk, enabling better preparedness.