Welcome To Earthquake Explorers!
Discover what causes earthquakes, how scientists measure them, and, most importantly, learn valuable tips to stay safe if one occurs.
Ready to explore and learn? Let's get started!
What Are Earthquakes?
Earthquakes happen when the Earth's surface shakes because of movement in the rocks deep underground. The Earth's crust is made up of big puzzle pieces called tectonic plates, which can cause an earthquake when they shift.
What Causes Earthquakes?
The energy from moving tectonic plates gets released suddenly, creating vibrations called seismic waves that cause Earth's ground to shake. Some earthquakes are tiny and barely noticeable, while others can be very powerful.
Where Do Earthquakes Happen?
They mostly happen along faults or cracks in the Earth's crust, where tectonic plates meet.
How Do Scientists Measure Earthquakes?
Scientists use a tool called a seismograph to measure earthquakes. The strength of an earthquake’s magnitude is currently reported using the Moment Magnitude scale with numbers ranging from micro (1-2) to major (7+).
How Can We Stay Safe?
Knowing safety tips like "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" can help kids and their families stay safe during an earthquake. Being prepared with emergency supplies, like water and a flashlight, is important.
Why Are Earthquakes Important to Learn About?
Understanding earthquakes helps people prepare for them and build safer homes and schools. Scientists study them to better predict when and where they might happen.
Learning about earthquakes can help kids feel more confident and ready if one occurs!
Earthquake Safety Tips For Kids
Drop, Cover, and Hold On
If an earthquake happens, get low to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
Create An Emergency Kit
Make sure your family has an emergency kit with water, snacks, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
Stay Away From Windows
Glass can break during an earthquake, so keep a safe distance.
Practice Makes Perfect
Join your family in earthquake drills to know what to do.
Earthquake Facts
Earthquakes Happen Every Day!
Thousands of tiny earthquakes occur around the world every day, but most are too small to feel.
The Largest Earthquake Recorded
The biggest earthquake ever recorded happened in Chile in 1960, with a magnitude of 9.5.
Animals Can Sense Them
Some animals act strangely just before an earthquake hits.
Earthquakes on Other Planets
Did you know Mars has "Marsquakes"? Scientists have detected quakes on other planets too!
