Final answer:
The area in a fault where stress builds up is called the seismic gap. This segment of a fault has not experienced an earthquake for a significant period of time, resulting in the accumulation of stress. A rupture in the seismic gap can result in a large and potentially destructive earthquake.
Step-by-step explanation:
The area in a fault where stress builds up is called the seismic gap. This is the segment of a fault that has not experienced an earthquake for a significant period of time, resulting in the accumulation of stress. When the seismic gap finally ruptures, it can result in a large and potentially destructive earthquake.