Earthquake Introduction

Multiple Choice

Why is it important for scientists and the public to understand how earthquakes occur and their impact?

• Because it helps predict and reduce the damage caused by earthquakes

• Because earthquakes are interesting natural phenomena

• Because earthquakes only affect uninhabited areas

• Because earthquakes are easy to prevent

Open Ended

Explain how the Richter scale and the Moment Magnitude scale differ in measuring earthquakes. Why might scientists prefer one over the other for large seismic events?

Multiple Choice

Which of the following regions is known for frequent earthquake activity due to tectonic plate boundaries?

• Pacific Ring of Fire

• Sahara Desert

• Amazon Rainforest

• Great Plains