Zemětřesení

Zemětřesení, or „earthquake“ in English, refers to the shaking of the Earth’s surface caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s lithosphere. This release of energy creates seismic waves, which can be felt on the surface and may cause damage to structures and landscapes. Earthquakes are commonly measured using seismographs, which detect and record the intensity, duration, and frequency of the seismic waves. The magnitude of an earthquake is often reported on the Richter scale or the moment magnitude scale, which quantify the energy released during the event. Earthquakes can occur due to various geological processes, including tectonic plate movements, volcanic activity, and human activities such as mining or reservoir-induced seismicity. They can result in significant hazards, including tsunamis, landslides, and aftershocks, necessitating preparedness and response strategies in vulnerable areas.