Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Tsunamis: Projects and Principles for Beginning Geologists

Description

Earthquakes, volcanoes, and tsunamis don't happen every day, so how can budding scientists study how they work? Through experiments, models, and demonstrations. This in-depth resource will teach readers how to build a seismograph to record a simulated earthquake, compare pressure waves and shear waves--the two types of ground shocks--using a Slinky, and replicate a tsunami's destructive effect on a "coastline" built in a bathtub. Authors Matthys Levy and Mario Salvadori even discuss issues of modern architecture and civil engineering: how science can be used to protect buildings and property in earthquake-prone areas. Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Tsunamis answers a wide array of questions about these phenomena. Can animals "predict" earthquakes? How have various cultures explained the movement of the earth throughout history? What is the Richter scale, and what does it tell us about the strength of a quake? And most important, readers will learn how to earthquake-proof their homes, and how to protect themselves should they experience a tremor.

Matthys Levy is chairman-emeritus of Weidlinger Associates Structural Engineers. His previous books include the best-selling Why Buildings Fall Down and Why the Earth Quakes. Mario Salvadori, author of Why Buildings Stand Up and many other books, was an internationally known architect, mathematician, and teacher whose career spanned more than 60 years. A long-time resident of New York City, Dr. Salvadori died in June, 1997.

"Each exploration will spark an interest in earth science, physical geography, civil engineering,applied physics and history." -- Curriculum Review