Japans Techtonic Setting

Question 1

What forces generate Japan’s volcanoes?

Answer 1

Tectonic forces

These forces are associated with the movements of tectonic plates.

Question 2

What natural disaster is associated with earthquakes in Japan?

Answer 2

Tsunamis

Earthquakes can trigger tsunamis, which pose significant risks to coastal areas.

Question 3

Where are the plate boundaries that create earthquake risks located?

Answer 3

Just offshore of the Japanese mainland

Movements along these plate boundaries are responsible for seismic activity.

Question 4

Which coastal zone in Japan is especially vulnerable to tsunamis?

Answer 4

The Pacific coastal zone

This area is densely populated and at high risk due to tectonic activity.

Question 5

What are the populations of the three huge conurbations in Japan?

Answer 5

Tokyo (36 million), Osaka (19 million), Nagoya (9 million)

These cities are among the largest in Japan and are located in the vulnerable Pacific coastal zone.