Which of the following would primarily cause rupturing of topside piping systems?

The rupturing of topside piping systems is primarily caused by water waves, which can exert significant pressure and dynamic forces on structures, particularly during extreme weather events such as storms or tsunamis. When water waves crash against a ship or platform, they can generate stresses that may exceed the material limits of the piping systems, leading to failure or rupture.

In contrast, while a blast or underwater shock can also cause damage to structures, these events are typically more associated with explosive forces and impacts that would affect structural integrity in a different manner. Radiation exposure does not directly apply to the physical forces acting on piping systems and would not be a relevant factor in causing ruptures in topside systems. Understanding the nature of the forces acting on marine infrastructure is essential for proper engineering and safety measures, where water waves have a predominant role in structural impacts.