23.5.2. Paleoseismology

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is paleoseismology?

   Hint

   Think about the link between geology and earthquake history.

2. 2.

   What is a fault scarp?

   Hint

   Consider what remains after a fault moves.

3. 3.

   What does paleoseismology study?

   • Modern earthquakes
   • Ancient earthquakes
   • Only fault movement

   Hint

   Think about the prefix 'paleo-' meaning ancient.

4. 4.

   True or False: Trenching is a non-invasive method of studying earthquakes.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what happens when you dig into the ground.

5. 5.

   A paleoseismologist discovers multiple layers of sediment in a trench. How would they determine the recurrence interval of earthquakes in that area?

   Hint

   Consider which scientific methods can date geological layers.

6. 6.

   Discuss the potential societal impacts if paleoseismological studies predict a high likelihood of future earthquakes in a populated area.

   Hint

   Think about how communities can react to increased risk.