4.4 4.5 tectonics quiz

What causes earthquakes?

• Sudden release of energy due to plate movements

• • The cooling of magma

• Coastal erosion

• Rising sea levels

Answer explanation

Earthquakes are primarily caused by the sudden release of energy due to the movement of tectonic plates. This release occurs when stress builds up along faults, leading to seismic activity.

Which scale is most commonly used to measure the energy released during an earthquake?

Answer explanation

The moment magnitude scale is the most commonly used scale to measure the energy released during an earthquake, as it provides a more accurate measure of large earthquakes compared to previous scales.

Which of the following is a secondary hazard associated with earthquakes?

• Volcanic eruption

• Ground shaking

• Tsunami

• Tornado

Answer explanation

A tsunami is a secondary hazard that can occur as a result of underwater earthquakes, causing massive waves. In contrast, ground shaking is a primary effect of earthquakes, while volcanic eruptions and tornadoes are unrelated.

Which of the following best describes an example of disaster risk management rather than disaster management?

• Coordinating rescue teams to evacuate people after an earthquake

• Providing emergency medical aid immediately following a volcanic eruption

• Conducting public education campaigns on evacuation procedures for potential tsunamis

• Distributing food and water to those affected by a natural disaster

Answer explanation

Conducting public education campaigns on evacuation procedures for potential tsunamis is an example of disaster risk management, as it focuses on prevention and preparedness rather than responding to an event after it occurs.

What role do building codes (regulation) play in disaster risk management for earthquakes?

• They make buildings taller

• They ensure buildings are painted correctly

• They help build buildings that can withstand seismic forces

• They reduce the cost of building construction

Answer explanation

Building codes are essential in disaster risk management as they establish standards for constructing buildings that can withstand seismic forces, thereby reducing damage and enhancing safety during earthquakes.

Which action is an example of disaster management during an earthquake event?

• Implementing building codes that make structures more earthquake-resistant

• Conducting emergency drills in schools to prepare students for an earthquake

• Deploying emergency response teams to rescue and assist people during an earthquake

• Educating communities on how to create an emergency supply kit for earthquakes

Answer explanation

Deploying emergency response teams is a direct action taken during an earthquake to rescue and assist affected individuals, making it a clear example of disaster management in response to the event.

Which factor most significantly affects the effectiveness of disaster management during an earthquake?

• The quick deployment and coordination of search and rescue teams

• The establishment of strict building codes in earthquake-prone area

• The frequency of earthquake drills conducted in schools and workplaces

• The availability of seismic data from previous earthquakes in the region

Answer explanation

The quick deployment and coordination of search and rescue teams is crucial during an earthquake, as it directly impacts the speed and effectiveness of response efforts, ultimately saving lives and minimizing damage.

In the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, what was one key factor that helped reduce loss of life from the tsunami?

• Lack of buildings near the coast

• High mountain ranges that blocked the wave

• A comprehensive early warning system

• Roads that directed water flow away from towns

Answer explanation

A comprehensive early warning system provided timely alerts to residents, allowing them to evacuate to higher ground before the tsunami struck, significantly reducing loss of life during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.

Why did the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami result in such high casualties?

• Lack of a tsunami warning system

• Earthquake magnitude was too low to be detected

• Immediate evacuation measures were in place

• A tsunami warning system alerted people too late

Answer explanation

The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami resulted in high casualties primarily due to the lack of a tsunami warning system, which left many people unaware of the impending disaster and unable to evacuate in time.

What was a significant improvement made globally after the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami?

• • Building more high-rise buildings along coastlines

• Introduction of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWS)

• Stopping all construction near coastlines

• Limiting population growth near oceans

Answer explanation

The introduction of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWS) was a crucial improvement post-2004 tsunami, enhancing early warning capabilities and disaster preparedness in coastal regions.