4.2.2

Earthquake Hazards

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Earthquake Hazards

Earthquakes cause many hazards, including ground shaking, landslides, and tsunamis, which threaten people, buildings, and the environment.

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Ground shaking

  • Earthquakes cause violent shaking of the ground.
    • Strong shaking can collapse buildings and bridges.
    • Roads and railways crack, disrupting transport.
  • Shaking is stronger near the epicentre and in soft ground areas.
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Liquefaction and ground displacement

  • Liquefaction happens when loose, wet soil behaves like liquid.
    • Buildings sink or tilt as the ground loses strength.
  • Ground displacement shifts roads, pipes, and power lines.
    • Cracks and gaps appear along fault lines.
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Flooding and tsunamis

  • Earthquakes can damage dams and water pipes, causing floods.
  • Underwater earthquakes may trigger tsunamis.
    • Tsunamis are large waves that flood coastal areas.
    • Tsunamis can travel far and cause loss of life and damage.
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Slope failure and landslides

  • Earthquakes can weaken hillsides and steep slopes.
  • Ground shaking may trigger landslides in mountainous regions.
    • Landslides bury roads, homes, and farmland.

Jump to other topics

1Paper 1 - Changing River Environnments

2Paper 1 - Changing Coastal Environments

3Paper 1 - Changing Ecosystems

4Paper 1 - Tectonic Hazards

5Paper 1 - Climate Change

6Paper 2 - Changing Populations

7Paper 2 - Changing Towns & Cities

8Paper 2 - Development

9Paper 2 - Changing Economies

10Paper 2 - Resource Provision

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