Answer:
Option (A)
Step-by-step explanation:
The brittle deformation zone (brittle shear zone) forms the upper portion of the crust. This includes the rocks that are present near the earth's surface. In this zone, the rocks are fractured, undergoes faulting due to the presence of a fault, and very often joints are created on the rock surface. This is because of the compressional, tensional and shear stress that forces the rock to deform.
Thus, the correct answer is option (A).