How do tectonic forces contribute to earthquakes?

Tectonic forces contribute to earthquakes primarily through the creation of stress in the Earth's crust. As tectonic plates move, they can interact in various ways, such as colliding, sliding past one another, or separating. This interaction generates significant stress along faults, which are fractures or zones of weakness in the Earth's crust.

When the accumulation of stress exceeds the strength of the rocks, it results in a sudden release of energy. This release occurs along the fault line where the stress has built up, producing seismic waves that we experience as an earthquake. The intensity and duration of these waves can vary, leading to different magnitudes of earthquakes depending on the amount of energy released.

Understanding the mechanics behind this process highlights the connection between plate tectonics and seismic activity, illustrating the dynamic nature of the Earth's surface and its ongoing geological evolution.