Can an atomic explosion cause an earthquake?

Answer 1

That's a very good question. I am no expert, but I think (in my humble opinion) that it is possible for an atomic explosion to cause an earthquake. If the atomic/nuclear explosion jars something loose underground, then I don't see why it can't happen.

Answer 2

No it is not techincally an earthquake that is caused but an after shock like a rumble or a strong vibration. An earthquake comes from the moving of tech-tonic plates under ground rubbing against eachother and bumping into eachother.

Answer 3

If the size of the underground explosion is big enough, it may trigger some activity.

An underground explosion can be detected like an earthquake.

Answer 4

Please compare the energy release in TNT equivalent of Richter scale. Our atomic energy so far we have designed can release the energy equivalent to Richter scale 4 only.
Approximate TNT Yield for Seismic Energy

1 30 lbs
2. 1 ton
3. 29 ton
4. 1000 ton
5. 32000 ton
6. 1 million ton
7. 32 million ton
8. 1 billion ton
9. 32 billion ton
10 1 trillion ton.

Answer 5

That gives me an idea for an interesting experiment. Drill a deep hole into the San Adraes Fault, lower a nuclear bomb into the hole, detonate it, and watch to see if Los Angeles gets shook to the ground. It would be great for kids to watch and learn about science.

Answer 6

i don't think so because when japan was bombed,i didn't hear about any earthquakes.you also don't hear about earthquakes following underground nuclear tests.

Answer 7

If it was to hit at the right spot on a Tectonic plate.

Answer 8

Having not been able to do this in a lab, I consider it a maybe if you can get the warhead deep enough!

Answer 9

Yes, it is possible in some cases (see link)