Understanding Earthquakes: Causes, Preparation, and Staying Safe
Introduction Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon that has fascinated and terrified humanity for centuries. These seismic events occur when the Earth's crust experiences a sudden release of energy, causing the ground to shake and sometimes resulting in devastating consequences. In this article, we will delve into the causes of earthquakes, the importance of preparation, and how to stay safe during these unpredictable occurrences. Causes of Earthquakes: Earthquakes are primarily caused by the movement of tectonic plates that make up the Earth's lithosphere. These massive slabs of solid rock float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them and are constantly in motion. The interaction between these plates results in three main types of earthquakes: 1. Divergent boundaries: When two plates move away from each other, it creates a gap where new crust is formed through a process called "seafloor spreading." This can lead to earthquakes, such as those occurring along the M...