The distribution of earthquakes around the world is not random, but rather concentrated in certain regions called seismic zones. These zones are associated with the boundaries of tectonic plates, which are large slabs of the Earth's crust that are constantly moving. When these plates collide, slide past each other, or spread apart, they generate seismic activity.

Major seismic zones include:

1. Circum-Pacific Belt: This is the most seismically active region in the world and is often referred to as the "Ring of Fire." It encircles the Pacific Ocean, including the west coasts of North and South America, the islands of the western Pacific, and parts of Asia. This region experiences the majority of the world's largest earthquakes.

2. Mediterranean-Alpine Belt: This zone stretches from the Mediterranean Sea through Europe, Turkey, Iran, and into Central Asia. It is associated with the collision of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates.

3. Mid-Atlantic Ridge: This is a submarine mountain range that runs through the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It is the boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates and is seismically active due to spreading and transform fault movements.

4. East African Rift System: This is a region of crustal extension in East Africa where the African Plate is splitting into two parts. It is characterized by volcanic activity and frequent seismic events.

5. Alpine-Himalayan Belt: This zone is associated with the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, forming the Himalayas and other mountain ranges. It experiences frequent earthquakes and is prone to severe ground shaking.

These are just a few examples of the major seismic zones around the world. Earthquakes can also occur in other areas, but they are generally less frequent and of lesser magnitude compared to those in the regions mentioned above.