Earthquakes COPY Flashcards
(12 cards)
what is an earthquake
shaking and vibration of the Earth’s crust due to movement of tectonic plates
where are earthquakes likely to happen?
conservative (sliding parallel)
&
destructive (sliding under)
plate boundaries

how do we measure the magnitude (strength) of an earthquake
on a seismometer which produces a seismograph

what is the Richter scale

measures the magnitude (strength) of the seismic waves (earthquake tremor) shown on the seismograph

what happens if 3 is registered on the Richter scale
gentle vibrations like a passing lorry
what happens if 5 is registered on the Richter scale
furniture moves
what happens if 6 is registered on the Richter scale
damaged buildings
what happens if 7-10 is registered on the Richter scale
major disaster
what is the highest Richter scale ever measured
where?
9.5
Chile
South America
1960

what causes a tsunami
underwater earthquake
how do you predict an earthquake
- cracks appear in rocks
- strange animal behaviour
- changes in well water levels
how do you plan for an earthquake
- monitor eathquake zones
- put disaster plans in place (fire, ambulance, police)
- warn people using the media
- educate people at school
- organise emergency supplies before the earthquake starts
- build strong skyscrapers