Final answer:
The New Madrid Seismic Zone has more earthquakes than the Southern Appalachian Seismic Zone because there are fewer but larger fault lines in the New Madrid Seismic Zone.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely explanation that supports the statement is that there are fewer but larger fault lines in the New Madrid Seismic Zone. While both the New Madrid Seismic Zone and the Southern Appalachian Seismic Zone experience earthquakes, the New Madrid Seismic Zone is known for producing larger and more damaging earthquakes. This is because the New Madrid Seismic Zone has deep-seated fault lines that are capable of generating stronger seismic activity.
For example, in 1811-1812, a series of powerful earthquakes occurred in the New Madrid Seismic Zone, causing widespread damage and altering the course of the Mississippi River. These earthquakes were some of the largest ever recorded in the United States and were attributed to the larger fault lines in the area.
Therefore, the presence of fewer but larger fault lines is the most likely explanation for the New Madrid Seismic Zone having more earthquakes than the Southern Appalachian Seismic Zone.
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