Earthquakes - AQAEffects and responses of earthquakes
Earthquakes are caused by the release of built-up pressure at plate margins. They can destroy buildings and infrastructure, with devastating and deadly effects.
The effect of an earthquake is the damage which happens as a result of the earthquake. The effects of an earthquake can vary depending on:
The size of the earthquake on the Richter scale - the higher it is on the scale, the more destruction it can cause.
Level of development - whether it occurs in a rich or a poor country. Richer countries will be more likely to be able to predict, protect and prepare themselves from the effects of an earthquake.
The depth of the focus - if it's shallow, it can be more destructive.
Distance from epicentre - the effects of an earthquake are more severe at its centre.
Population density - the more people living in an area, the more likely that more deaths and casualties may arise.
The time of day - whether people are in their homes, work or travelling.
Responses
Responses are how countries react to an earthquake. They are categorised as follows:
Short-term or immediate - a response in the days and weeks immediately after a disaster has happened. Short-term responses mainly involve search and rescue and helping the injured.
Long-term - responses that go on for months and years after a disaster. It involves rebuilding destroyed houses, schools, hospitals, etc. It also involves kick-starting the local economy.