Understanding Earthquakes: Causes, Occurrences, and Impacts

What causes earthquakes according to the passage?

• Movement of tectonic plates

• Volcanic eruptions

• Weather changes

• Human activities

How many major earthquakes, with a magnitude of 7 or greater, occur on average each year?

• 16

• 23

• 55

• 20,000

What secondary disasters can earthquakes trigger?

• Landslides and tsunamis

• Hurricanes and tornadoes

• Floods and droughts

• Volcanic eruptions

Why did the 1999 Izmit earthquake in Turkey result in significant casualties?

• Poor adherence to building codes

• High magnitude of the earthquake

• Lack of seismic monitoring

• Proximity to the ocean

What is a challenge scientists face in relation to earthquakes?

• Predicting the exact time and location

• Understanding the causes

• Measuring the magnitude

• Identifying earthquake-prone areas