What are earthquakes?

An earthquake is any sudden shaking of the

ground caused by the passage of seismic waves
through Earth’s rocks. These seismic waves are
produced when energy stored in Earth’s crust is
suddenly released. This release of energy typically
occurs when masses of rock strain against each
other and then suddenly fracture and “slip.”
Earthquakes most commonly occur along geologic
faults, which are narrow zones where rock masses
move in relation to one another.
 What causes earthquakes?
Earthquakes occur along fault lines, which are cracks in Earth’s crust
where tectonic plates meet. Let’s explore how this happens:

Tectonic Plates: Imagine Earth’s outer layer as a giant jigsaw puzzle

made up of large pieces called tectonic plates. These plates are
constantly moving, albeit very slowly.

Stuck and Stress: Sometimes, due to friction, these plates get stuck
at their edges. The pressure builds up because the plates are still
trying to move.

Mining: The removal of material from the Earth’s crust can cause
instability, leading to sudden collapses that trigger earthquakes

Fracking (Hydraulic Fracturing): In the U.S., fracking for oil and

natural gas has induced seismic activity. High-pressure wastewater
used in the fracking process can crack rocks and lubricate faults,
leading to earthquakes.
 Effects of earthquake
Trauma-Related Deaths and Injuries: Buildings collapse
during earthquakes, leading to fatalities and injuries.
Secondary Effects: These include:

Drowning from Tsunamis: Underwater earthquakes can

generate giant ocean waves (tsunamis) that inundate
coastal areas.

Burns from Fires: Ruptured gas lines or electrical fires

can cause burns.

Avalanches and Landslides: Earthquake-induced

landslides can bury communities.
Long-Term Effects:

Economic Impact: Reconstruction costs, business

disruption, and loss of livelihoods.

Environmental Damage: Soil liquefaction, land

subsidence, and changes in landscapes.
 Real life example of earthquake
• Great Chilean Earthquake of
1960:
Magnitude 9.5, highest ever
recorded.
Massive tsunami reached up to 10.7
meters.
Tsunami waves raced northwestward
to Japan and the Philippines,
wreaking havoc.

• Great Alaska Earthquake of 1964:

Second strongest earthquake ever
recorded (magnitude 9.2).
Caused tsunamis, landslides, and
major landscape changes.
Some areas near Kodiak raised by 9.1
meters, while others near Portage
dropped by 2.4 meters.
 How can we measure the earthquake
Magnitude vs. Intensity:
Seismographs:
Magnitude measures the energy
These devices detect and measure
released by an earthquake.
ground motion caused by seismic
The Moment Magnitude Scale
waves.
(MMS) is commonly used worldwide.
When the Earth trembles, seismic
It captures all different seismic waves
waves spread energy.
from an earthquake.
Seismographs convert these
Magnitude does not depend on the
vibrations into electrical signals,
measurement location.
which are then displayed as
Intensity describes the severity of an
seismograms on a computer screen.
earthquake’s effects at different
locations:
The Modified Mercalli Scale
measures shaking intensity at
specific locations.
Intensity varies based on proximity
to the epicenter.
 How to take precautions for earthquakes
Before an Earthquake:
Create an Earthquake Safety Plan:
Develop a well-thought-out plan for you and your loved ones, including pets.
Identify safe places in each room of your home where you can take cover during an earthquake.
Secure Heavy Objects:
Ensure that furniture, appliances, and other heavy items are properly anchored.
Gas Lines and Appliances:
Ensure that gas lines and appliances are properly installed with flexible connections.
This helps prevent gas leaks and reduces the risk of fire hazards during an earthquake.
Emergency Supplies:
Keep the kit easily accessible.
During an Earthquake:
Drop, Cover, and Hold On:
Drop to the ground to prevent being knocked over.
Cover your head and neck with your arms to protect yourself from falling debris.
If possible, crawl under a sturdy piece of furniture for additional shelter.
Stay away from glass windows, outside doors, and walls.
After an Earthquake:
Check for Injuries:
Attend to any injuries and seek medical help if needed.
Be cautious of broken glass and other hazards.
 Reference
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• https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/earthquake/353075
Thank you