Final answer:
Earthquakes can occur in subduction zones and along faults where tectonic plates interact. The release of energy during plate movement can cause destructive seismic activity. Understanding earthquake dynamics is vital for safety and building standards in prone areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Strong earthquake activity can also occur in settings such as subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced under another, and along faults, where tectonic plates slide past each other.
The movement of these plates can lead to the release of significant amounts of energy, resulting in earthquakes. For example, the 2011 earthquake off the east coast of Japan triggered a destructive tsunami, illustrating the potential for earthquakes to cause widespread damage, especially when they occur near the sea.
Understanding the mechanisms of earthquakes, such as the role of resonance, standing waves, and constructive and destructive interference, is crucial for developing building codes and other safety measures to protect regions susceptible to this natural hazard.