FAULT:

EPICENTRE: A weak point in the

The point on the tectonic plate where
surface directly pressure within the crust
above the focus. is released.

SHOCKWAVES
(seismic waves):
Waves of energy that
travel outwards from
the focus.

FOCUS:
Where the earthquake begins.
Earthquake characteristics
• An earthquake is when the
ground shakes or moves in
sudden jerks.
• Cracks may appear on the
Earth’s surface.
• Aftershocks may occur.
• Earthquakes under the sea or in
coastal areas can cause
tsunamis.
• Ground made from loose
sediments may suffer from
liquefaction.
Measuring earthquake intensity

Intensity Magnitude

The affects of an earthquake at a given location. The overall strength or ‘size’ of an earthquake.

Measured using the Mercalli intensity scale. Measured using the Richter magnitude scale.
Measuring earthquake intensity
Volcano characteristics
Types of volcano
Measuring volcano eruptions
• Volcanic Explosivity Index
(VEI)
• Each number is ten times
greater than the last.
• A VEI of 6 occurs every 50-
100 years
• A VEI of 8 occurs
approximately every 50,000
years