Understanding the Big One: Earthquake and Tsunami Risks

The video discusses the potential catastrophic earthquake known as the Big One, which could affect the west coast of North America. It explains the interaction between the North American and Juan de Fuca tectonic plates, leading to mega thrust earthquakes. Researchers have used sound technology to map the fault line, revealing it is segmented, which affects earthquake magnitude. The northern segment is particularly concerning due to its smoothness and proximity to land. This information is crucial for developing early warning systems and preparing cities like Vancouver for potential impacts.

What is the 'Big One' in the context of earthquakes?

• A major earthquake predicted to hit the West Coast

• A hurricane expected in the Gulf of Mexico

• A minor earthquake expected on the East Coast

• A volcanic eruption in the Pacific

Which tectonic plate is interacting with the North American Plate off the Pacific West Coast?

• African Plate

• Pacific Plate

• Eurasian Plate

• Juan de Fuca Plate

What is a mega thrust earthquake?

• A small, frequent earthquake

• A moderate earthquake with no tsunami

• An earthquake that occurs only in the Atlantic

• The most powerful type of earthquake known

Why was it challenging for researchers to understand the fault line?

• It is constantly moving and changing

• It is covered by dense vegetation

• It is unusually quiet with few small earthquakes

• It is located in a densely populated area

What method did researchers use to map the fault line?

• Satellite imagery

• Seismic drilling

• Thermal imaging

• Sound pulses and echolocation

How is the fault line structured according to recent findings?

• It is broken into at least four segments

• It is a vertical fault line

• It is a circular formation

• It is a single continuous structure

What characteristic of the fault line could lead to a larger earthquake?

• Its smoothness

• Its jagged nature

• Its depth

• Its proximity to the equator

Which area is most likely to experience the 'Big One' according to researchers?

• Southern California

• Central Mexico

• Northern Vancouver Island and Washington State

• Eastern Canada

Why is the northern part of the fault line more concerning?

• It has more frequent small earthquakes

• It is further from land

• It is smoother and more shallow

• It is deeper than other parts

What is the purpose of early warning systems in the context of earthquakes and tsunamis?

• To predict the exact time of an earthquake

• To measure the magnitude of past earthquakes

• To prevent earthquakes from occurring

• To provide a few minutes notice before shaking or waves hit