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Questions and Answers
How does ground shaking during an earthquake affect ecosystems?
Ground shaking destroys ecosystems by rupturing oil and chemical factories, polluting land and water, and fracturing trees, causing widespread injury and habitat damage.
What are some structural damages caused by ground shaking in urban areas?
Ground shaking can weaken and collapse buildings, bridges, roads, and railways, making it difficult for rescue operations.
In what ways do ruptured water pipes during an earthquake disrupt human life?
Ruptured water pipes lead to water shortages and impact sanitation, affecting public health and emergency response efforts.
Describe the communication challenges posed by earthquakes as a result of ground shaking.
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How did the 2010 Haiti earthquake exemplify the destructive impacts of ground shaking?
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What types of ecological damage can occur due to ground shaking?
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What are some immediate effects on infrastructure following an earthquake?
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Discuss how the Christchurch earthquakes impacted natural systems.
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What is soil liquefaction and how does it affect terrestrial species during earthquakes?
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How do earthquakes impact infrastructure and property?
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In what ways can an earthquake lead to fatalities and injuries?
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Discuss how earthquakes can result in the pollution of waterways.
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What role does the location of a city on previous swamp areas play in earthquake impacts?
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How do earthquakes disrupt essential services such as electricity and communication?
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What are the ecological consequences of tree loss during soil liquefaction events?
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Why is it difficult to supply emergency aid following an earthquake in areas with severe liquefaction?
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What was a significant consequence of the 2008 Great Sichuan Earthquake in terms of infrastructure?
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How did debris contribute to fatalities during the 2008 Great Sichuan Earthquake?
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What natural disaster triggered the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami?
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What ecological impact did the tsunamis have on coastal regions?
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What extent of damage did the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami cause in terms of human loss?
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In what ways did tsunami waves disrupt services in the affected areas?
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Identify a major hazard posed by the large amounts of debris carried by tsunami waves.
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What role did landslides play during the 2008 Great Sichuan Earthquake?
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Study Notes
Earthquake Hazards
- Ground shaking leads to severe disruption of ecosystems, including rupture of oil and chemical facilities, resulting in land and water pollution.
- Soil liquefaction causes saturated soil to lose structure, transforming it into a fluid state that can sink buildings and damage habitats.
- Tsunamis, triggered by undersea earthquakes, can flood coastal ecosystems and carry destruction across vast distances.
Impact on Natural Systems
- Ecosystems are devastated through destruction of wildlife habitats, fracturing trees, and causing widespread tree fatalities.
- Water bodies are negatively affected by pollution from chemical spills and untreated sewage due to broken pipes during earthquakes.
- Biodiversity loss occurs as habitats are damaged or submerged, affecting both terrestrial and aquatic species.
Impact on Human Systems
- Properties, infrastructure such as buildings, roads, and bridges are often weakened or completely destroyed, leading to significant economic loss.
- Emergency response is hindered due to ruptured water, gas, and communication lines, making rescue efforts more challenging.
- Injuries and fatalities are common as people may become trapped under collapsed structures or injured by debris.
Examples of Earthquake Events
- 2010 Haiti Earthquake (Mw 7.0): Resulted in over 250,000 homes being destroyed and approximately 220,000 fatalities. Pollution from debris compromised local water quality, exacerbating shortages.
- 2010 Christchurch, New Zealand Earthquakes: Severe liquefaction occurred due to the city’s swampy land, with over 60,000 buildings affected and extensive tree damage disrupting local ecosystems.
- 2008 Great Sichuan, China Earthquake (Mw 7.9): Triggered over 15,000 landslides leading to nearly 20,000 deaths, with widespread destruction of urban infrastructure and habitats.
- 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami (9.1 Mw): Following an earthquake near Sumatra, significant flooding devastated coastlines across 11 countries, resulting in over 230,000 fatalities and profound habitat destruction.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the various hazards associated with earthquakes and their effects on natural and human systems. Explore the destruction caused by ground shaking and the examples of major earthquakes, including their ecological and infrastructural impacts.