Shakes and Quakes: Natural Disasters That Change the Earth Science 5th Grade

Earthquakes and volcanoes are two of the most powerful forces on the planet. They can cause widespread damage and even loss of life. In this article, we will explore the science behind these natural disasters and learn how they can change the Earth's surface.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release of energy below the Earth's surface. This energy can be caused by a variety of factors, including the movement of tectonic plates, volcanic eruptions, and human activity (such as mining or fracking).

Shakes and Quakes | Natural Disasters that Change the Earth | Science Book 5th Grade | Children's Earth Sciences Books

by Baby Professor

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Language	:	English
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Print length	:	72 pages

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When an earthquake occurs, it can cause the ground to shake violently. This shaking can damage buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Earthquakes can also trigger landslides, avalanches, and tsunamis.

The magnitude of an earthquake is measured on the Richter scale. The Richter scale is a logarithmic scale, which means that each whole number increase represents a tenfold increase in the amplitude of the seismic waves. A magnitude 5 earthquake is ten times stronger than a magnitude 4 earthquake, and a magnitude 6 earthquake is ten times stronger than a magnitude 5 earthquake.

The largest earthquake ever recorded was the 1960 Valdivia earthquake in Chile. This earthquake had a magnitude of 9.5 and caused widespread damage and loss of life.

Volcanoes

Volcanoes are mountains that form when magma (molten rock) from the Earth's mantle rises to the surface. When the magma reaches the surface, it erupts through a vent in the volcano's cone.

Volcanic eruptions can be very dangerous. They can release ash, lava, and gas into the atmosphere. Ash can block out the sun and cause respiratory problems. Lava can flow down the sides of a volcano and destroy everything in its path. Gas can be toxic and can cause suffocation.

The most famous volcano in the world is Mount Vesuvius in Italy. Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD and destroyed the Roman city of Pompeii.

How Earthquakes and Volcanoes Change the Earth's Surface

Earthquakes and volcanoes can change the Earth's surface in a variety of ways. These changes can include:

• Creating new mountains and valleys
• Changing the course of rivers
• Creating new islands
• Destroying existing landforms

These changes can have a significant impact on the environment and on human populations.

Earthquakes and volcanoes are powerful natural disasters that can have a devastating impact on the Earth and its inhabitants. However, these disasters can also create new landforms and change the course of history. By understanding the science behind these natural disasters, we can better prepare for them and mitigate their impact.

Shakes and Quakes | Natural Disasters that Change the Earth | Science Book 5th Grade | Children's Earth Sciences Books

by Baby Professor

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	45154 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	72 pages

FREE