What Causes Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur when there is a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust, causing the ground to shake. This happens due to movements of tectonic plates, the massive slabs of rock that make up the Earth's surface. These plates are constantly shifting, but when they get stuck at their boundaries, stress builds up over time. When the stress becomes too great, it is released in the form of seismic waves, which travel through the ground, causing an earthquake. The point where the earthquake starts underground is called the focus, while the point directly above it on the surface is known as the epicenter.

The Impact and Measurement of Earthquakes

Earthquakes can range from minor tremors to devastating events that cause widespread destruction. Their intensity is measured using the Richter scale or the Moment Magnitude Scale (Mw), which indicates the amount of energy released. Areas located near tectonic plate boundaries, such as the Pacific Ring of Fire, experience frequent earthquakes. Scientists use seismographs to monitor seismic activity and help predict potential quakes, though precise forecasting remains challenging. To reduce earthquake damage, engineers design buildings with shock-absorbing materials and flexible foundations, helping communities stay safer in earthquake-prone regions. Shutdown123