28.11. Isoseismal Maps and Their Interpretation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What do isoseismal lines connect?

   Hint

   Think about what these lines represent in terms of shaking.

2. 2.

   Why are isoseismal maps important?

   Hint

   Consider what information they provide after an earthquake.

3. 3.

   What is the purpose of isoseismal maps?

   • To assess damage
   • To measure earthquake depth
   • To report aftershocks

   Hint

   Think about the data provided after an earthquake.

4. 4.

   True or False: Isoseismal lines intersect in areas of maximum intensity.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how contour lines work.

5. 5.

   Given an isoseismal map from an earthquake, identify how the distribution of intensity might influence building codes in the region.

   Hint

   Consider how building materials differ in response to seismic activity.

6. 6.

   Evaluate how local topography might skew the predictions made by isoseismal maps during an earthquake event.

   Hint

   Think about how landscapes affect wave propagation.