Earthquakes
What causes an earthquake?
When tectonic plates rub, slide, or collide. The built-up energy releases suddenly, causing the ground to shake.
How do volcanoes form?
Magma pushes through cracks in the Earth’s crust, especially near tectonic boundaries or hot spots.
What is a hurricane?
A large tropical storm that forms over warm ocean water with rising moist air.
How do tsunamis start?
Sudden movement under the ocean (like earthquakes, volcanoes, or landslides).
What are wildfires?
Large, uncontrolled fires that burn forests, grasslands, and sometimes towns
What's the name of the scale that measures Earthquakes?
The Richter Scale
What is melted rock called when it is underground?
Magma
What gives the storm more energy?
Warm ocean water
What should you do if a tsunami is coming?
Move to higher ground
What makes them spread faster?
Dry plants (fuel), high temperatures, and strong winds
What is the Earthquake drill that we did in class?
Drop, Cover, Hold On!
Where are volcanoes found?
Ring of Fire (around the Pacific) and hot spots like Hawaii.
What is the name of the Hurricane scale?
Saffir-Simpson scale
Near land waves ...
Grow taller
What should you do during a tornado
Go to a basement or lowest level (cover your head)
What is the Focus?
The point underground where the quake starts.
What is the crater?
The bowl-shaped opening at the top of the volcano
What are the 3 parts of a hurricane?
Eye, eyewall, and rainbands
What is a warning sign of a tsunami?
Water suddenly pulling away from shore
What is tornado alley?
Where tornadoes happen often in the U.S
What is the epicenter?
The point on the Earth’s surface directly above the "focus."
When do volcanoes erupt?
When pressure builds up, it erupts as lava, ash, and gas
What are the 3 ways to track a hurricane?
Satellites, Radars, Planes
How do scientists detect Tsunamis
Seismographs and DART buoys.
What is the difference between a tornado watch and a warning?
Watch = possible, Warning = happening