How tsunamis are formed

Tsunamis are caused by underwater disturbances like landslides or volcanic eruptions, displacing large amounts of water. As these waves approach the shore, the top travels faster than the bottom, causing the water level to rise. Tsunami waves can be over 100 kilometers long and may be an hour apart. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami traveled 5,000 kilometers to Africa, illustrating the vast reach and impact of such events.

What natural events can lead to underwater disturbances that cause tsunamis?

• Earthquakes and hurricanes

• Landslides and volcanic eruptions

• Tornadoes and floods

• Droughts and wildfires

As a tsunami wave approaches the shore, what happens to the speed of the wave's top compared to its bottom?

• The bottom travels faster than the top

• Both travel at the same speed

• The top travels faster than the bottom

• The top travels slower than the bottom

How long can tsunami waves be in length?

• Around 50 kilometers

• More than 100 kilometers

• Up to 10 kilometers

• Less than 5 kilometers

What is the time interval that can occur between tsunami waves?

• A few seconds

• Several minutes

• Up to one hour

• A couple of hours

How far did the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami travel to reach the coast of Africa?

• 1,000 kilometers

• 3,000 kilometers

• 5,000 kilometers

• 7,000 kilometers