Earthquakes and preparing for tectonic hazards Flashcards
what is a Fault?
cracks in the earth’s crust along which there is movement
what is the Epicentre?
the exact point at which the earthquake occurred- often deep in the ground.
what is the Focus?
the point on the Earth’s surface directly above the focus, where the energy bursts onto the surface and spreads out in a series of shock waves
How do earthquakes happen?
When plates move, they may be locked. Pressure builds up.
When the rocks cannot withstand the increasing pressure, they break. The accumulated energy is released suddenly as seismic waves. This causes vibration of the earth.
what are some prevention methods?
Modifying the environment to limit the damage should a hazard occur.
Instruct stricter building codes
How do you predict earthquakes?
Measure movements of tectonic plates
Calculating probabilities and forecasts.
How to prepare for earthquakes?
Do earthquake drills
