Understanding Earthquakes

What is an earthquake?

• A geological process that happens over millions of years.

• An earthquake is a sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates.

• A phenomenon that occurs only underwater.

• A type of weather event caused by high winds.

What causes earthquakes to occur?

• Changes in atmospheric pressure

• Human activities like mining and drilling

• Volcanic eruptions releasing magma

• Movement of tectonic plates and the release of built-up stress along faults.

What is the scale used to measure the magnitude of an earthquake?

• Richter scale or moment magnitude scale (Mw)

• Fujita scale

• Beaufort scale

• Saffir-Simpson scale

How can people prepare for an earthquake?

• Ignoring building codes

• People can prepare for an earthquake by creating an emergency plan, securing heavy furniture, having an emergency kit, practicing safety drills, and staying informed.

• Moving to a different country

• Buying a new car

What is the difference between an earthquake's epicenter and its focus?

• The focus is the point where seismic waves are first detected; the epicenter is where they are strongest.

• The epicenter is the underground origin of the earthquake; the focus is the surface point directly above it.

• The focus is the underground origin of the earthquake; the epicenter is the surface point directly above it.

• The epicenter is the center of the earthquake; the focus is the area surrounding it.

What safety measures should be taken during an earthquake?

• Stand still in the doorway

• Drop, cover, and hold on; stay away from windows and heavy objects.

• Hide under a table with no legs

• Run outside immediately