Essay on Earthquake | Types, Causes & Effects

The earthquake is one of the worst experiences that can shake the earth up and down, leaving death and destruction all around. Read complete essay on earth definition, types, causes & effects, prevention, etc with examples

Essay on Earthquake, Types, Causes & Effects

An earthquake is a natural calamity caused by the movement of tectonic plates present under the surface of the earth. The movement of tectonic plates causes damage and destruction, earthquake is often named a destructive phase of nature. The magnitude of the earthquakes is measured on the Richter scale.

This is one of the most damaging natural calamities which is hardly detected by seismologists, the branch of science called seismology is purely dedicated to the study of earthquakes, many advancements have been made to determine the sudden occurrence of this natural calamity.

However hard scientists try but they have greatly failed to determine the exact time and date of this natural calamity. The forecasting and prediction regarding this natural calamity hardly benefit humans. Scientists have stated that all volcanic regions are more prone to earthquakes as compared to other religions, volcanoes cause frequent earthquakes.

The movement of magma and volcanic eruptions shake earth which brings movement in tectonic plates and earthquake occurs. Volcanic earthquakes cause more destruction. Japan is the most prone country to earthquakes, it is highly affected by this natural calamity.

Causes of Earthquake

The main causes of earthquakes are volcanic eruptions, geographical faults, and human activities. Human activities like nuclear bombing and mining are major causes of earthquakes. The displacement of plates from their original position cause earthquakes. The breaking of the rocks underneath the surface of the earth cause earthquakes.

Effects of Earthquakes

Earthquakes cause loss of lives, destroy buildings and plazas, violent earthquakes cause mass destruction. Since time immemorial our planet earth has been hit by several small and violent earthquakes which not only damaged properties, buildings, and houses but also many innocent lives were lost.

Earthquake in a sea bed causes tsunami which causes huge loss of lives. The ground rupture due to earthquakes is harmful to dams, bridges, and nuclear power stations. When it is measured higher on the Richter scale it causes fires in forests, rubbing of trees produces fire which is very damaging.

Earthquake is natural, sometimes it causes no damage, it proves very little devastating when it is mild and at a small scale. Even if it is small, the slightest tremors spread panic and fear among people.

Precautions/Prevention

1. Evacuate houses, homes, offices schools, buildings and run to open areas when it occurs or is warned.
2. Don’t stand near to any collapsing building or any falling object.
3. If don’t find time or place to run hide under any table or bed.
4. Carry all necessary like food, water, medicines, documents, credit cards, debit cards, or cash in a bag in case of emergency.

Conclusion

Earthquake is one of the greatest natural calamities of the world, it has caused the loss of thousands of lives and has made humans suffer a lot.

Annually many earthquakes occur throughout the world which is potentially very dangerous. None can stop this calamity to occur but we can only wisely act to save our lives and loss of property.