Tectonic Hazards

• Tectonic hazards involve the movement of tectonic plates in the Earths crust such as earthquakes and tsunamis
• Atmospheric hazards are linked to weather and climate like hurricanes
• Geomorphological hazards occur on the Earths surface such as flooding
• Biological hazards, like forest fires affect living organisms
• The mantle is made of rocks that are soft enough to move. The crust is the outer layer of thin rocks. The inner core is made of solid iron and nickel while the outer core is made of liquid iron and nickel.

  
• What are the differences between continental and oceanic crust?

  1. Oceanic crust is thicker than continental crust.
  2. Oceanic crust can be destroyed while continental crust can’t be destroyed.
  3. Oceanic crust can sink into the mantle but continental crust can’t sink into the mantle.
• Destructive Plate Margin

  An oceanic plate and a continental plate move towards each other due to convection. The oceanic plate is heavier so is forced under the continental plate. Earthquakes happen as pressure is released. As the oceanic plate melts pressure builds up and the magma is forced out of a weak spot causing a volcano. E.G Japan
• Collision Plate Margin

  When 2 continental plates move towards each other due to convection. They have the same properties so push into each other. Earthquakes occur but no volcanoes. They push up and create fold mountains. E.G The Himalayas
• Constructive Plate Margin

  When 2 tectonic plates move away from each other due to convection. Magma rises where plates have moved apart. New crust is formed. Earthquakes and volcanoes occur. E.G North American and Eurasian Plates at the Mid Atlantic Ridge
• Constructive Plate Margin

  When two plates slide past each other (either the same or opposite way) due to convection. The plates often get stuck and pressure builds up. This pressure is released suddenly causing earthquakes. E.G North American and Pacific Plates San Andreas California
• Why do people live in hazardous areas?

  1. Some people can’t afford to move
  2. Fault lines allow water to reach the surface which is important in dry areas
  3. Some people aren’t aware of the risks
  4. They are favourable places to live
  5. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are rare
  6. Effective monitoring allows people to evacuate
  7. Buildings can withstand earthquakes making people feel safe
  8. Benefits like fertile soil and building materials
• Benefits of earthquakes?

  Geothermal energy, diamonds sulphur and gold
• Benefits of volcanoes?

  Fertile soil, geothermal energy, tourism and building materials