Question

question 8 (1 point)
sometimes tectonic plates do not move easily past one another, and the plates become stuck. forces build up, and when the plates finally move, tension is released, as shown below.
image of tectonic plates with seismic waves, epicenter labeled
the sudden movement of the plates is caused by —
○ a unbalanced forces
○ b the mass of the plates
○ c the weight of the plates
○ d gravitational force

Explanation:

When tectonic plates are stuck, forces build up. Unbalanced forces occur when there is a net force acting on an object (in this case, the tectonic plates). The mass of the plates (\(b\)) is a property of the plates but doesn't directly cause the sudden movement. The weight of the plates (\(c\)) is related to mass and gravity and isn't the immediate cause. Gravitational force (\(d\)) is a general force but not the specific cause here. The build - up of forces (unbalanced) leads to the sudden movement.

Answer:

a. unbalanced forces