Natural disasters that can often be destructive to humans, earthquakes occur under various circumstances and there are different types. Discover their characteristics with us!
THE TYPES OF EARTHQUAKES
An earthquake can be vertical or transverse.
- A vertical earthquake causes shaking that occurs vertically, meaning from the bottom up, which is felt mainly in the area directly above;
- A transverse earthquake, on the other hand, causes a predominantly horizontal movement that sways objects and buildings.
Graphic representation of a vertical earthquake and a transverse earthquake
Earthquakes can also be classified into other types, including:
- Tectonic earthquakes, which originate from movements along faults. They are the most frequent and most powerful ones, as they release a massive amount of energy.
- Volcanic earthquakes, which originate from the volcanic activity of magma underground or in the volcanic vent. They are less frequent and less powerful.
- Collapse earthquakes, caused by the collapse of mountains, caves or the fall of landslides. They are infrequent and have a very limited power.
- Finally, man-made earthquakes, which can occur after an explosion.
Effects of a tectonic earthquake
Keep following us to find out all there is to know about earthquakes!
