What roles do scientists have in detecting this type of disaster?
Predicting where an earthquake may occur is not possible, but there are many ways in observing the chances of an earthquake arising. Scientists are able to estimate where major earthquakes are likely to occur, by the movement of plates and the location of fault zones, through the use of laser beams, across a fault. Scientists use seismographs (a global network of quake-detecting instrument), which is mounted on the surface of the earth, to detect and record earthquakes by measuring the seismic energy of the earth on a mechanical system on to paper. They can also make a general guess of where earthquakes may occur, in certain areas, through identifying the history of earthquakes in that region and by looking at where pressure is building along fault lines. Scientist measure the level of radon gas, which escapes from the cracks on the earth’s crust, to suggest if there may be an earthquake due soon, in regards to the high levels of gas that escapes. Scientists also detect the movement of unusual animals such as the common toad (Bufo bufo), which can detect seismic activity days in advance of a quake.
