I really need this answer soon so, help me out.
2007-03-08 00:07:09 · 4 answers · asked by Neo 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
Two words: Fault Lines.
2007-03-08 00:08:56 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
We know where the stress areas are as in faults, plate boundaries, subduction zones, etc. And can predict the general areas prone to earthquakes.
But, no one can predict when the stresses are going to build enough to overcome the friction that currently keeps them from moving. Nor can we predict exactly where the stress relief will occur. If we could, then we could minimize the loss of life and limb.
It is amazing how deep in the earth's crust epicenters are and how little movement, in some cases just meters, is involved in causing massive quakes at the surface.
2007-03-08 18:38:32 · answer #2 · answered by Tom-PG 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The reason is that they know what parts of the earth are more likely to have one. We can predict an earthquake happening within a 5 year span.
The more preasure on the "cracks" the more likely there will be one there.
2007-03-08 08:09:20 · answer #3 · answered by Dude 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
scientists know where the faults and plates are in the earths crust. by knowing that you can guarantee thet there will be some type of earthquake in those regions at some point in time.
my prediction: in california sometime soon.......jk
2007-03-08 08:14:31 · answer #4 · answered by donnyhlt 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋