Earthquakes

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

What tool do scientists use to measure the strength of an earthquake?

Back

Seismograph.

Front

What is the term for the damage caused by an earthquake?

Back

Destruction.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Thin rocky sections of Earth's crust that fit together like a puzzle.

Front

What is a fault in geology?

Back

A fault is an area where breaks in Earth's plates come together.

Front

What is the San Andreas Fault?

Back

A major fault line located in California known for its seismic activity.

Front

What are seismic waves?

Back

Waves of energy that travel through the Earth and are caused by earthquakes.

Front

What is the focus of an earthquake?

Back

The point within the Earth where an earthquake originates.

Front

What is the epicenter of an earthquake?

Back

The point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus of an earthquake.

Front

What is magnitude in relation to earthquakes?

Back

Magnitude is a measure of the energy released during an earthquake.