This gradual accumulation and release of stress and strain is now referred to as the "elastic rebound theory" of earthquakes. Most earthquakes are the result of the sudden elastic rebound of ...

Earth's crust is the planet's outermost layer. It is made of solid rock and sits on top of another layer, called the mantle.

The first earthquake struck while the town was still asleep. Around 2:00 am on Dec. 16, 1811, New Madrid—a small frontier settlement of 400 people on land now located in Missouri—was jolted awake.

When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Earth's crust is the planet's outermost layer. It is made of solid rock and sits on top of ...