Question

Which of the natural hazard(s) listed below can be caused by Earthquakes?

• A. Tsunamis
• B. Landslides
• C. Cyclones
• D. Lightning

Hint:

Tsunamis and landslides are natural hazards that can be triggered by earthquakes, while cyclones and lightning are unrelated to seismic activity.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B

Earthquakes are powerful seismic events caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust, typically due to tectonic activity. Earthquakes can trigger a variety of natural hazards, which can cause significant destruction and loss of life. The hazards associated with earthquakes depend on the location, magnitude, and depth of the seismic event. Let’s analyze each option:
- Tsunamis: Earthquakes, especially those occurring under the ocean, are a primary cause of tsunamis. When an earthquake occurs beneath the ocean floor, the vertical displacement of the seabed can displace large volumes of water, generating waves that can travel across the ocean. These waves can build up in height as they approach coastal areas, causing catastrophic flooding and damage to coastal infrastructure. Tsunamis are one of the most devastating hazards associated with underwater earthquakes.
- Landslides: The shaking caused by an earthquake can destabilize slopes, triggering landslides. These landslides can occur in mountainous regions or in areas with weak or loose soil, causing further destruction and posing a threat to human life and property. Landslides triggered by earthquakes are particularly dangerous because they can occur suddenly, often without warning.
- Cyclones: Cyclones (or hurricanes, typhoons) are not caused by earthquakes. Cyclones are weather phenomena that form in the atmosphere due to differences in temperature and pressure, particularly over warm ocean waters. They are not related to seismic activity and are a separate type of natural hazard.
- Lightning: Lightning is caused by the buildup of static electricity in clouds and is not directly associated with earthquakes. While lightning may occur during storms or extreme weather conditions, it is not a result of seismic activity.
Step 1: Understanding Tsunamis and Landslides
Tsunamis are caused by the displacement of water due to underwater earthquakes, while landslides occur when the ground shakes, loosening material on slopes and causing it to move. These two hazards are directly related to earthquakes and can result in widespread destruction, particularly in coastal and mountainous regions.
Step 2: Distinguishing Cyclones and Lightning
Cyclones and lightning are unrelated to seismic activity. Cyclones are atmospheric phenomena, and lightning is an electrical discharge caused by atmospheric conditions, neither of which are triggered by earthquakes.
Thus, the correct answers are (A) Tsunamis and (B) Landslides.