Whose observations first showed that earthquakes can happen far from plate boundaries?
Quick Answer
Modern intraplate earthquake studies showed that some large quakes occur within plates, not only at their edges. Scientists now understand that ancient faults and stresses inside plates can still rupture.
The Full Story
For a long time, earthquakes were thought to happen mainly at plate boundaries. Later observations showed that some significant quakes occur deep within plates, where old faults can be reactivated by regional stress. These intraplate earthquakes are less common but can be very damaging because they may strike unexpected regions. The idea broadened earthquake hazard science beyond boundary zones. It showed that no place on Earth is completely free from seismic risk.
Key Facts
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"Earthquakes can strike where no plate boundary exists"
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