Earthquakes Flashcards
1
Q
What is an earthquake?
A
An earthquake is a sudden release of pressure form the movement of two plates caused by convection currents in the mantle.
2
Q
Where do they occur?
A
At all plate boundaries and major fault lines.
3
Q
What is the epicentre?
A
The point on the surface where the earthquake has happened directly above the focus.
4
Q
What is the focus?
A
The point in the crust where the seismic waves start.
5
Q
How are earthquakes measured?
A
The Richter Scale and the Mercalli Scale.
6
Q
Name 3 primary effects.
A
Collapsing buildings Damaged communications Roads and bridges collapsing Power lines destroyed Broken water mains
7
Q
Name 3 secondary effects.
A
Fires Diseases Homelessness Loss of water supply Loss of medical facilities Landslides
8
Q
Example of an earthquake in a LIC.
A
Haiti earthquake- 12th January 2010
9
Q
Name 3 protections for buildings.
A
- Foundations that sink into bedrock avoiding clay.
- Rubber shock proof absorbers to absorb earth tremors.
- Fire resistant building materials
- Steel frames that can sway during earth movements.
10
Q
Example of an earthquake in a HIC.
A
L’Aquila, Italy
6th April 2009
