Tag Archives: Earthquake

What is a tidal wave?

A tidal wave is a large ocean wave, usually caused by an earthquake or violent storm at sea.  Sometimes great, destructive waves sweep in from the sea like a huge tide.  Most people call these “tidal wave,” but they have nothing to do with true waves. Scientist have a special name for tidal waves.  They …

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How does a seismograph measure earthquakes?

By means of a delicately hung weight on a fixed base, a seismograph traces a chart which records how powerful an earthquake is. When an earthquake occurs, the violent movement of the earth’s crust causes vibrations that spread out in all direction though the earth. To help detect and measure earthquakes, scientists have invented an …

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What causes waves?

Water waves are caused mainly by the wind.  On a windy or stormy day there are many waves in the water, and on a calm day there are fewer waves. This explains what makes most waves in the water.  Winds push up waves on seas, lakes and ponds.  The waves you see on a calm …

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What does the inside of the earth look like?

Beneath the earth’s rocky crust are the hard mantel, hot liquid outer core, and the solid metal inner core. Have you ever tried to dig a deep hole—maybe all the way to the other side of the world?  Of course, you could dig only a few feet.  But suppose you could dig a hole straight …

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