tectonic stress

Tectonic stress refers to the forces generated within Earth's lithosphere due to the movement of tectonic plates. These forces can cause rocks to deform, fracture, or slide along faults. There are three main types: compressional (squeezing), tensional (stretching), and shear (twisting). When the stress exceeds a rock's strength, it results in earthquakes or the formation of geological features like mountains and faults. Understanding tectonic stress helps explain how Earth's surface changes over time and why seismic activity occurs in specific regions.