9. What causes potential energy that accumulates in a fault to transfer to the surface during an earthquake?

A. Seismic waves
B. Refraction
C. Triangulation
D. Lithostatic pressure



Answer :

Final answer:

Seismic waves transfer potential energy from a fault to the surface during an earthquake, creating shaking. Different types of seismic waves play a role in how the energy is propagated through the Earth's layers.


Explanation:

Seismic waves are what causes potential energy accumulated in a fault to transfer to the surface during an earthquake. These waves are generated as energy is released from the earthquake focus, traveling through the Earth and creating surface waves upon hitting the outer crust.

The different types of seismic waves include P waves (primary waves), S waves (secondary or shear waves), and surface waves. P and S waves travel through the Earth's interior, while surface waves travel along the Earth's surface, producing the shaking experienced during an earthquake.


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