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Which areas are usually the most seismically active, experiencing the most earthquakes, in general?

A. Ka'ū and Puna
B. Kaua'i and O'ahu
C. Hamakua and Hilo
D. Kohala and Kona

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The most seismically active areas in Hawaii are Ka'ū and Puna, where the Hawaii hot spot sustains three active volcanoes including Kilauea, one of the most active in the world, contributing to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most seismically active areas, experiencing the most earthquakes, are usually those near plate boundaries or above mantle "hot spots." Specifically, for the options provided related to regions in Hawaii, the answer is A. Ka'ū and Puna. These two regions are located on the island of Hawaii, where the Hawaii hot spot currently maintains three active volcanoes, indicating ongoing seismic activity.

This hot spot has been responsible for the creation of the Hawaiian island chain through sustained volcanic eruptions over millions of years. Additionally, the Hawaiian region is indirectly part of the broader Pacific "Ring of Fire," which is characterized by frequent seismic and volcanic activity and is one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the world.

Mount Kilauea, within the Puna district, is one of the world's most active volcanoes, further demonstrating the significant seismic activity of this area. Combined with Mauna Loa and the dormant volcanoes Mauna Kea and Hualālai, the island of Hawaii is a focal point for studying seismic and volcanic phenomena due to its intense tectonic activity. Therefore, the regions of Ka'ū and Puna are among the most seismically active areas in the Hawaiian Islands, and by extension, globally.

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