Earthquakes and Geological Discovery

Résumé du livre

Describes how & why scientists trace seismic activity & measure the extent & patterns of seismic waves. Shows how seismographic data are used to mitigate the risk of future earthquakes by incorporating the latest theoretical models, technologies, & techniques. Describes the three-pronged effort to predict the occurrence of earthquakes -- the search for warning signs, the review of patterns of past occurrences, & the measurement of the strain on faults. Concludes by focusing on the challenge of predicting the intensity of ground shaking, demonstrating how an understanding of seismic intensity leads to the construction of safe buildings & to other measures that reduce an earthquake's potential for destruction. Color illus.