What is an Earthquake?
An earthquake is defined as a sudden shaking or trembling of the earth that lasts for a very short time, mainly caused by disturbances deep within the earth's crust. These disturbances often stem from the movement of tectonic plates, which are not in one solid piece but fragmented into several parts called plates.
When these plates brush past each other or collide, they cause disturbances that manifest as earthquakes. While minor earthquakes occur frequently and often go unnoticed, major earthquakes are less common but can result in substantial damage to buildings, lives, and even trigger secondary disasters such as tsunamis and landslides. Earthquakes are part of a broader trend of natural phenomena and are notable for their unpredictability, particularly compared to storms or lightning, which can be forecasted to some extent.
This section not only defines what an earthquake is but also underscores the magnitude scale that is used to express its power, specifically mentioning the Richter scale, where earthquakes measuring higher than 7 can potentially cause severe destruction. With seismic zones identified across various regions, especially in India, the importance of preparedness and the methods employed to protect oneself against such incidents are also discussed.