Forces that Affect Changes On the Earths Surface

• Magnitude


  The total amount of energy released during an earthquake
• Earthquake


  • Shaking of the ground caused by the release of energy along a fault
  • Faults are cracks in the Earth's crust where the surrounding rock has moved or shifted
• Earthquakes are a destructive process. They release energy that can cause rapid destruction on the Earth's surface
• Earthquakes can cause landslides
• Earthquakes under the ocean can result in tsunamis
• Earthquakes can damage buildings and bridges
• Safety Precautions in Case of an Earthquake

  1. Before an Earthquake: Prepare an emergency kit, store breakable items on lower shelves, avoid hanging breakable objects near bed, know emergency exits and evacuation plans

  2. During an Earthquake: Do not panic, drop, cover, and hold, cover head and hide under sturdy objects, avoid windows and breakable objects, if outdoors stay away from power lines and structures

  3. After an Earthquake: Be prepared for aftershocks, return home only when authorities say it's safe, inspect for damages and do repairs, help those in need
• Volcano


  • A vent on the Earth's surface through which molten rock (magma) flows out from the mantle
  • Volcanoes erupt when magma is forced to the surface due to high temperature and pressure in the mantle
  • When magma reaches the surface, it is called lava
• Volcanic eruptions can be very destructive
• Volcanic eruptions


  • Mayon volcano eruption
  • Mt. Pinatubo eruption
• Volcanic eruption can destroy settlements and natural landscapes
• Volcanic eruption can cause powerful volcanic mudflow (lahar)
• Formation of volcanoes can also be a constructive process. Volcanoes may form from the ocean floor, and when a volcano reaches the surface of the water, a volcanic island is formed
• When broken down, the lava and ash deposited during a volcanic eruption provide nutrients for the soil, making it very fertile
• Volcanic islands


  • Aogashima
• The rich soil around volcanoes are good for agriculture
• Safety Precautions in Case of a Volcanic Eruption

  1. Before an Eruption: Prepare an emergency kit with goggles and dust masks, create a household evacuation plan, be aware of warning signs and listen to updates, evacuate as soon as there are signs of a possible eruption

  2. During an Eruption: If outdoors, wear protective gear, do not go to places where lava and volcanic debris are expected to flow, if indoors, close windows and doors to keep ash out

  3. After an Eruption: Return home only when authorities say it's safe, inspect for damages and do repairs, clear out volcanic debris, help those in need