Earthquakes

• What are earthquakes?

  Sudden tremors or vibrations in Earth's crust
• How do earthquakes occur?

  Pressure builds along fault lines and releases
• What is the focus of an earthquake?

  The point beneath the surface where it occurs
• What is the epicentre of an earthquake?

  The point on the surface directly above the focus
• Where is the strongest tremor felt during an earthquake?

  At the epicentre
• What is a seismologist?

  A person who studies earthquakes
• What instruments do seismologists use?

  Seismographs
• What does the Richter scale measure?

  The strength of an earthquake
• How much stronger is an earthquake measuring 6 on the Richter scale compared to one measuring 5?

  Ten times stronger
• What are some damages caused by earthquakes?

  Loss of life and damaged buildings
• How can damage from earthquakes affect utilities?

  Damage to electric cables can cause fires
• What can happen to transportation during an earthquake?

  Bridges, roads, and railways can be damaged
• What natural disasters can be triggered by earthquakes?

  Landslides and avalanches
• What is a tsunami?

  A huge wave caused by underwater earthquakes
• What are aftershocks?

  Smaller tremors following an earthquake
• What is the San Andreas Fault known for?

  Many earthquakes occurring along it
• What is the range of the Richter scale?

  Between 1 and 10
• What happens to water during an underwater earthquake?

  It can be displaced, causing a tsunami
• How can damage from earthquakes be reduced?

  • Build earthquake-resistant buildings
  • Use shock absorbers in foundations
  • Reinforce walls with steel
  • Conduct earthquake and tsunami drills
  • Implement early-warning systems
• Why might fewer deaths occur if an earthquake happens at night?

  People are often indoors and safer
• Why is damage worse in poorer countries during earthquakes?

  Limited resources for building and recovery
• What was the magnitude of the earthquake that hit Japan on March 11, 2011?

  8.9 on the Richter scale
• What was the height of the tsunami caused by the earthquake in Japan?

  Over 40 metres