Chapter 11: Problem 1

Define the term earthquake.

Short Answer

Expert verified

An earthquake is a natural phenomenon resulting from the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust due to stress from the movement of tectonic plates. This released energy travels as seismic waves, causing shaking or trembling of the ground.

Step by step solution

Start with a simple definition

An earthquake is a sudden shaking or trembling of the Earth's surface resulting from the release of energy in the planet's crust.

Add the role of tectonic plates

Earthquakes are mainly caused by the movement of tectonic plates - large pieces of the Earth's outer shell that fit together like a puzzle. These plates are continuously moving, causing stress and pressure to build up in the Earth's crust.

Explain how energy is released

When the stress in the Earth's crust becomes too high, it can no longer be maintained, and the energy is suddenly released. This release of energy is what causes an earthquake.

Mention seismic waves

The released energy propagates through the Earth's crust in the form of seismic waves. These waves travel through the ground and cause the shaking or trembling felt during an earthquake.

Provide a concise definition

In summary, an earthquake is a natural phenomenon resulting from the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust due to stress from the movement of tectonic plates. This released energy travels as seismic waves, causing shaking or trembling of the ground.

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Define the term earthquake.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Start with a simple definition

Add the role of tectonic plates

Explain how energy is released

Mention seismic waves

Provide a concise definition

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