HMH- Between the Glacier and the Sea: The Alaska Earthquake

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

An earthquake is the shaking of the surface of the Earth resulting from a sudden release of energy in the Earth's lithosphere that creates seismic waves.

Front

Where is Alaska located?

Back

Alaska is located in the far northwest of North America, bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north, Canada to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the south.

Front

What does 'magnitude' refer to in the context of earthquakes?

Back

Magnitude is a measure of the energy released during an earthquake, often measured on the Richter scale.

Front

What does 'literally' mean?

Back

Literally means in a literal manner; exactly as stated, without exaggeration or metaphor.

Front

What is the significance of the term 'prior'?

Back

Prior means before in time or order.

Front

How can we describe the duration of an earthquake?

Back

The duration of an earthquake refers to how long the shaking lasts, which can vary from a few seconds to several minutes.

Front

What is a maintenance crew?

Back

A maintenance crew is a group of workers responsible for the upkeep and repair of buildings and facilities.

Front

What is the purpose of seismic waves?

Back

Seismic waves are waves of energy that travel through the Earth and are used to detect and measure earthquakes.

Front

What is the difference between an aftershock and a foreshock?

Back

An aftershock is a smaller earthquake that occurs after a larger earthquake, while a foreshock is a smaller earthquake that occurs before a larger one.

Front

What does it mean when an earthquake is described as '7.5'?

Back

A 7.5 earthquake indicates its magnitude on the Richter scale, signifying a major earthquake that can cause significant damage.