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Two quakes of equal measurements on all scales occur in two different areas. In earth quake 1, the damage is severe but in earthquake 2, the
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Two quakes of equal measurements on all scales occur in two different areas. In earth quake 1, the damage is severe but in earthquake 2, the damage is minimal. Explain some reasons why this is possible.
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Physics
3 years
2021-07-15T13:38:22+00:00
2021-07-15T13:38:22+00:00 1 Answers
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Answer:
See explanation
Explanation:
Depth: Earthquakes can happen anywhere from at the surface to 700 kilometers below. In general, deeper earthquakes are less damaging because their energy dissipates before it reaches the surface. So it is highly likely that the earthquake 1 was shallower than earthquake 2.
Distance from the epicenter: The epicenter is the point at the surface right above where the earthquake originates and is usually the place where the earthquake’s intensity is the greatest. Plausible that earthquake 1 might have been closer to its epicenter as compared to earthquake 2.
Local geologic conditions: The nature of the ground at the surface of an earthquake can have a profound influence on the level of damage. Loose, sandy, soggy soil, like in Mexico City, can liquefy if the shaking is strong and long enough, for example. That doesn’t bode well for any structures on the surface. Plausible that the area around the earthquake 1 might have poorer geologic conditions as compared to area of earthquake 2.