Final answer:
Earthquakes near plate boundaries are primarily caused by the movement of tectonic plates. When these plates collide or slide past each other, it releases energy perceived as earthquakes. In oceanic contexts, subduction where a plate sinks beneath another into the mantle is a common reason.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely cause of the earthquakes near this plate boundary is due to the movement of tectonic plates. The Earth's crust is divided into various plates that are constantly moving.
When these plates collide or slide past each other at their boundaries, it results in a release of energy which we experience as earthquakes. Such seismic activities are common near plate boundaries.
In the context of oceanic plates, this happens frequently due to subduction where one plate sinks under another into the mantle, causing earthquakes.
Learn more about Plate Tectonics