An earthquake is a shaking of the ground caused by the sudden dislocation of material within the earth's outer layer, or crust. When forces pushing on a mass of rock overcome the friction holding the rock in place and blocks of rock slip against each other a earthquake may occur. Some earthquakes are so slight, and some occur in such remote areas, that they are barely felt. Others are so violent that they cause extensive damage.
Causes
Kinds of Waves
Intensity and Magnitude
Location and Distribution of Earthquakes
Effects of Earthquakes
Prediction
How to protect yourself during a quake
Above graphics taken from http://www.lafd.org/eqadult.htm
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