Earthquakes

Earthquakes are sudden and intense shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. They occur when stress built up along geologic faults is released, resulting in the release of energy in the form of seismic waves. These waves can vary in magnitude, resulting in both minor tremors and major seismic events that can cause significant damage to structures, landscapes, and ecosystems. Earthquakes are measured using instruments called seismometers, which record the intensity, duration, and frequency of the seismic waves. The point within the Earth where the earthquake originates is known as the focus, while the point directly above it on the surface is called the epicenter. Earthquakes can also trigger secondary effects such as tsunamis, landslides, and aftershocks. They are a natural phenomenon that occurs in seismic zones around the world, with varying frequency and intensity depending on the region’s geological characteristics.