Earthquakes occur when the Earth’s tectonic plates shift, releasing energy in the form of seismic waves. The point where the earthquake originates is called the hypocenter, while the point directly above it on the surface is called the epicenter. There are three types of plate boundaries that can cause earthquakes: divergent boundaries, convergent boundaries, and transform boundaries.
The magnitude of an earthquake is measured using the Richter scale, which measures the amplitude of the seismic waves produced by an earthquake. Earthquakes can have a significant impact on people and the environment, causing destruction to buildings, bridges, and other structures, triggering landslides, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions, and disrupting infrastructure and services.
To mitigate the impact of earthquakes, building codes and construction practices can be improved to make buildings and infrastructure more earthquake-resistant. Early warning systems can also be developed to detect seismic activity and provide advanced warning to people in affected areas. Education and preparedness can also play a critical role in mitigating the impact of earthquakes by developing emergency response plans, stockpiling supplies, and conducting earthquake drills and exercises.
