Nature of seismicity and its relation to plate tectonics: forms of seismic hazard including earthquakes, shockwaves, tsunamis, liquefaction, landslides
Seismicity means earthquake activity. Tectonic plates moving against each other cause earthquakes, which then trigger further hazards such as tsunamis, liquefaction, and landslides.
Real World
The 2011 Tōhoku earthquake off Japan's coast triggered a tsunami that reached heights of 40 metres, and liquefaction turned reclaimed land in Urayasu City to unstable slurry, destroying hundreds of homes without direct shaking damage.
Exam Focus
Always name the specific plate boundary type and movement when explaining seismic hazard origins — examiners award marks for precise tectonic context.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
How well did you know this?