Earthquakes
⭐ MasteredEarth's crust is split into huge plates. When plates suddenly slip, the ground shakes in an earthquake. Scientists measure them on the Richter or magnitude scale.
Earthquakes under the sea can cause giant waves called tsunamis.
All about Earthquakes
An earthquake is a sudden shaking of the ground caused by energy released in Earth's crust. Earth's outer layer is broken into huge tectonic plates that move very slowly. When the edges of plates get stuck and then suddenly slip, the energy spreads out as waves.
Earthquakes are measured with seismometers. Scientists describe their size using the magnitude scale, which replaced the older Richter scale for most measurements. Most earthquakes are too small to feel, but large ones can damage buildings and roads.
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Real-life uses of Earthquakes
- Designing buildings that can flex and survive shaking
- Warning people with early-alert systems that send messages before strong shaking arrives
- Helping geologists understand the structure of Earth's interior
Frequently asked questions about Earthquakes
What causes earthquakes?
Most are caused by tectonic plates moving and slipping against each other along faults.
What should I do during an earthquake?
Drop, cover and hold on. Get under a sturdy table, cover your head and neck, and hold on until the shaking stops.
Can earthquakes be predicted?
Scientists can say which areas are at higher risk, but they cannot yet predict the exact time and place of an earthquake.