Final Answer:
The absence of major earthquakes in Michigan is attributed to option D – there are no major tectonic plate boundaries located near Michigan.
Step-by-step explanation:
Michigan's geological stability can be attributed to its location away from tectonic plate boundaries. Earthquakes are primarily associated with the movement of tectonic plates, and regions near plate boundaries are more susceptible to seismic activity. Michigan is situated within the interior of the North American Plate, away from active plate boundaries. Without the intense tectonic forces that characterize plate boundaries, Michigan experiences relatively low seismic activity.
The other options are not accurate explanations. Earthquakes can occur on peninsulas, and the absence of earthquakes in Michigan is not due to a hot spot or the type of rock (limestone) present. Understanding the geological context of an area helps explain the likelihood of seismic events, and in Michigan's case, the lack of major plate boundaries is the key factor.
Option D is the answer.