Question

1. when an earthquake occurs, two sides of a fault slip past each other which generates seismic waves that cause the ground to shake. this is caused by the release of __________ energy. (a) kinetic (b) potential (c) chemical (d) electrical

Explanation:

When two sides of a fault are stuck, stress builds up. This stored energy is potential energy. When the fault slips (during an earthquake), this potential energy is released as seismic waves (kinetic energy of the ground shaking). But the initial stored energy in the stressed - fault system is potential energy. Chemical energy involves energy from chemical bonds (not relevant here). Electrical energy is about electric charges (not relevant). Kinetic is the energy of motion (the result of the release, not the stored form).

Answer:

B. Potential