Earthquakes

 

What is an earthquake?

 

An earthquake happens when the tectonic plates under the earth begin to move. Tectonic plates move up, down, and sideways

 

 

down

Normal Fault

Normal Fault

up

Reverse Fault

Reverse Fault

sideway

Strike-Slip Fault

Strike-Slip Fault

 

What is a seismograph or Richter scale?
A seismograph is an instrument used for recording the intensity and duration of an earthquake.

 

 

 

Richter Scale Earthquake

4

Minor Earthquake

5

Moderate Earthquake

6

Strong Earthquake

7

Major Earthquake

8

Great Earthquake

 

What is a tsunami?
A tsunami is a large ocean wave usually caused by an underwater earthquake or a volcanic explosion.

 

What is an aftershock?

After an earthquake, be prepared for after shocks. After shocks are small earthquakes that happen after the big earthquake.

 

Pictures of earthquake disasters