earthquake epicenters

The distribution of earthquake epicenters is closely related to the geological features and tectonic
plate boundaries of the Earth. Earthquakes occur mainly along plate boundaries, where the Earth's
lithospheric plates interact. There are several types of plate boundaries:

1. Divergent Boundaries: These are zones where two tectonic plates move away from each other. As
they separate, magma rises from the mantle to fill the gap, creating new crust. Earthquakes at
divergent boundaries tend to be relatively shallow and mild to moderate in magnitude. Examples of
divergent boundaries include the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the East Pacific Rise.
2. Convergent Boundaries: At convergent boundaries, two plates move towards each other, resulting
in one plate being forced beneath the other in a process called subduction. Subduction zones are
notorious for generating powerful earthquakes due to the immense stress and friction as the plates
interact. The depth of earthquakes at convergent boundaries can vary from shallow to deep,
depending on the specific subduction zone. Examples include the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the
Pacific Plate is subducting beneath other plates, leading to numerous earthquakes.
3. Transform Boundaries: Transform boundaries occur where two plates slide past each other
horizontally. The friction between the plates builds up stress until it is released in the form of
earthquakes. Transform boundaries are characterized by frequent shallow to moderate earthquakes.
The San Andreas Fault in California is a well-known example of a transform boundary.

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major mountain belts to Plate Tectonic Theory