The effects of earthquakes
I can categorise primary and secondary effects of earthquakes and explain why some earthquakes are more deadly than others.
- Year 8
The effects of earthquakes
I can categorise primary and secondary effects of earthquakes and explain why some earthquakes are more deadly than others.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Primary effects happen directly as a result of an earthquake, for example broken gas pipes.
- Secondary effects happen as a result of an earthquake's primary effects, for example a fire.
- Earthquake severity depends on the magnitude, focus depth, epicentre location, aftershocks, preparations and response.
- Some of the deadliest and costliest earthquake events have occurred in high income countries.
Keywords
Magnitude - how much energy is released during an earthquake, often measured in Mw (moment magnitude)
Epicentre - where the earthquake is first felt, the point on the surface directly above the focus
Focus - the point underground where the tectonic plates first break or slip
Common misconception
A dangerous earthquake event is when the ground shakes, once. Then the danger is over.
Further sizeable earthquakes may occur in the days, weeks and months after a big earthquake, known as aftershocks, and these can be as dangerous for people and property, especially given the damage already done.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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