Earthquakes

Question 1

what is an earthquake

Answer 1

shaking and vibration of the Earth’s crust due to movement of tectonic plates

Question 2

where are earthquakes likely to happen?

Answer 2

conservative (sliding parallel)

&

destructive (sliding under)

plate boundaries

Question 3

how do we measure the magnitude (strength) of an earthquake

Answer 3

on a seismometer which produces a seismograph

Question 4

what is the Richter scale

Answer 4

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

Question 5

what happens if 3 is registered on the Richter scale

Answer 5

gentle vibrations like a passing lorry

Question 6

what happens if 5 is registered on the Richter scale

Answer 6

furniture moves

Question 7

what happens if 6 is registered on the Richter scale

Answer 7

damaged buildings

Question 8

what happens if 7-10 is registered on the Richter scale

Answer 8

major disaster

Question 9

what is the highest Richter scale ever measured

where?

Answer 9

9.5

Chile

South America

1960

Question 10

what causes a tsunami

Answer 10

underwater earthquake

Question 11

how do you predict an earthquake

Answer 11

1. cracks appear in rocks
2. strange animal behaviour
3. changes in well water levels

Question 12

how do you plan for an earthquake

Answer 12

1. monitor eathquake zones
2. put disaster plans in place (fire, ambulance, police)
3. warn people using the media
4. educate people at school
5. organise emergency supplies before the earthquake starts
6. build strong skyscrapers