Do the people of callifornia have nothing to worry about from this fault??? explain.
2007-09-17 18:13:08 · 2 answers · asked by ~~xx{Stelth[k9]}xx~~ 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
Just because the fault is moving gradually doesn't mean it moves smoothly and frictionless. If just a few centimetres of movement occurs all at once, it releases a great deal of energy. When the rocks get "locked up" on each other it stores a lot of energy. When it finally breaks, all that potential energy is released.
Don't copy my answer on your homework. At least paraphrase.
2007-09-17 18:23:39 · answer #1 · answered by Lady Geologist 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
as long as the fault is SLOWLY moving, there may not be the quake that is so fearful. there are still problems that occur, such as roads and underground utilities not flexing. these are the low level (<2) ones that may cause some vertigo. the problem arises when areas DONT move except in fits and jerks. then when the two sides break free of each other, quakes occur and the damage is seen. yes, they have to be concerned about it and all the other faults that haven't moved for a while. the seismic pressure increases (stress in the earth) until it lets go and BAM, you have a 5+
2007-09-17 18:33:42 · answer #2 · answered by william p 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋