Plate tectonics (KQ3)

Question 1

What are some examples of preparedness measures against earthquakes and tsunamis?

Answer 1

• land use regulations
• strengthening infrastructure
• emergency drills
• earthquake and tsunami warning systems

Question 2

What are land use regulations?

Answer 2

• they are a set of rules implemented to restrict development in certain areas
• all new building developments are not allowed to be built across fault lines or areas at risk of liquefaction
• prohibition of contruction of buildings on low-lying land vulnerable to tsunamis

Question 3

Why are land use regulations effective?

Answer 3

• they prohibit the constructing of new buildings on low lying areas

Question 4

What are some examples of land use regulations?

Answer 4

• land use regulations are enforced in california (USA) to restrict new buildings new buildings being constructed across fault lines or areas at risk of liquefaction to minimise the damage caused by earthquakes
• in memphis (USA), land use is regulated with the help of maps which identifies areas at risk of liquefaction
• land use regulations are enforced along the coasts of japan and north america where the pacific ring of fire is located
• it is ensured that there are necessary protective barriers built, such as seawalls to protect buildings on low-lying coastal areas from the threat of tsunamis

Question 5

What are some limitations of land use regulations as a preparedness measure to earthquakes?

Answer 5

• they may not be implemented easily in existing areas that have been built up or in privately owned land
• this is due to residents and private owners being unwilling to relocate as they believe that another hazard would not happen
• governments may need to buy land from private owners or compensate those who need to relocate in order to implement the protection measure in the areas at risk
• this may be very costly

Question 6

What must be done to infrastructure to make it withstand the vibration associated with an earthquake?

Answer 6

• it must be developed with advanced engineering

Question 7

What does advanced engineering refer to in making buildings earthquake resistant?

Answer 7

• effective building design can reduce the collapse of buildings and minimise damage caused by an earthquake
• roads, bridges and dams can be built to resist the shaking of the ground so that they do not collapse, or can be easily repaired if they collapse
• homes, office buildings and factories can be fitted with trip switches that ensure all electrical points are switched off in the event of an earthquake
• this will prevent fires from breaking out