What type of earthquake occurs when induced stresses around mine workings cause massive rocks to fly explosively from the mine face, creating seismic waves?

Correct option is A

A collapse earthquake occurs when seismic waves are generated due to the collapse of underground structures, often in mines. This type of earthquake is triggered when induced stresses around mine workings cause massive rocks to fly explosively from the mine face. The release of energy causes seismic waves, which are detectable as small earthquakes. These earthquakes are typically of low magnitude and are localized to the area of the collapse.

Key points:

• A collapse earthquake occurs due to mining activity, particularly when underground cavities or mine shafts collapse.
• The seismic waves produced are usually of low intensity but can be sharp and localized.

Additional Information:

• Induced seismicity refers to earthquakes triggered by human activities, such as mining, reservoir-induced seismicity, or geothermal energy extraction.
• Collapse earthquakes are distinct from tectonic earthquakes, which result from natural processes such as the movement of tectonic plates.

Other Options:

• Explosion earthquake: These earthquakes occur due to explosions, such as those used in mining, demolition, or nuclear tests. While explosions cause seismic waves, the term "explosion earthquake" is not commonly used in this context.
• Volcanic earthquake: These earthquakes are associated with volcanic activity, caused by the movement of magma beneath the earth’s surface, and are not related to mine workings.
• Tectonic earthquake: These are the most common type of earthquakes, caused by the movement of tectonic plates along faults. They occur due to the release of energy from plate movements, not from mining activities.