Introduction
Webquest created by Mr. Theleman
On 26th December 2004 off the coast of Northern Sumatra the fourth largest earthquake this century occurred. The quake occurred at 10 km depth, and was measured to 9.0 on the Richter scale. A displacement of the tectonic plates will always generate a wave at the surface of the ocean called a Tsunami. In this case, the tectonic plates are estimated to have been displaced as much as 30 meters, the energy released is equivalent to 10,000 Hiroshima atomic bombs. As the Tsunamis travel across the open oceans, Tsunamis travel of up to 800 km/h (500 mph). They can cause extensive damage as they have tragically done in the countries surrounding the Indian Ocean. The Tsunami caused more casualties than any other in recorded history. In total, more than 220,272 people were killed, 22,352 are still listed as missing.
The Sumatra Earthquake is a reminder that humans seem powerless against natural disasters. Of all of the natural disasters, earthquakes are one of the most destructive. Why do earthquakes continue to be so devastating and what can be done to minimize the devastation of an earthquake? Are humans powerless to protect themselves from these natural disasters? This webquest will use the events of this disaster and others to try and find answers to these questions.
Earthquake Webquest created by Mike Theleman; Last updated February 12, 2005
