Learn: Tectonic Hazards

Welcome!Today we'll learn about tectonic hazards. This is an important topic in Geography 8035 GCSE (AQA), and we'll explore plate tectonics, the causes of earthquakes and volcanoes, and how we can respond to these natural hazards.

What are Tectonic Hazards?Tectonic hazards are natural events caused by movement of the Earth's crust. They include earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. These hazards can have significant impacts on people and the environment, depending on their location, magnitude, and the preparedness of the area affected.

Plate Tectonics TheoryThe Earth’s crust is broken into large pieces called tectonic plates. These plates float on the semi-molten mantle beneath them. Plate movements are driven by convection currents in the mantle, which are caused by heat from the Earth's core.

Types of Plate MarginsThere are three main types of plate margins:Constructive margins: Plates move apart, and magma rises to fill the gap, forming new land and volcanoes.Destructive margins: Plates move towards each other; the denser oceanic plate is forced under the continental plate, creating earthquakes and volcanoes.Conservative margins: Plates slide past each other, causing friction and earthquakes.

Earthquakes: Causes and EffectsEarthquakes occur when stress builds up at plate margins and is suddenly released, causing vibrations in the Earth’s crust. These vibrations can lead to primary effects (e.g., collapsed buildings and infrastructure damage) and secondary effects (e.g., fires, landslides, or tsunamis).

Volcanoes: Formation and FeaturesVolcanoes form at constructive and destructive plate margins. At constructive margins, magma rises to fill gaps between plates. At destructive margins, melting of the subducted plate creates magma, which erupts as a volcano. Volcanoes can have features like craters, lava flows, and ash clouds.

Managing Tectonic HazardsWe cannot prevent tectonic hazards, but we can reduce their impact through monitoring, prediction, protection, and planning. For example, scientists use equipment to monitor seismic activity, and buildings can be designed to withstand earthquakes.

Why Do People Live in Hazardous Areas?Despite the risks, people often live near tectonic hazards for reasons like fertile soils, tourism, geothermal energy, or because it’s their home. Understanding these reasons helps us plan better responses to natural disasters.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about tectonic hazards, plate margins, earthquakes, volcanoes, and management strategies. Now let’s test your understanding with a few questions.