Question

Compare and contrast the constructive effects and the – destructive effects of an earthquake.

Answer 1

Constructive effects :

1. Earthquakes help the earth release its stored up energy. The majority of the earthquake occur around. The plate margins. This energy release helps to keep the earth in good shape.
2. On account of both vertical and lateral displacement of the earth’s crust, earth-quakes may raise or lower parts of the earth especially near the seashore. Sagami Bay of Japan was uplifted 200 m in 1923.
3. Landslides triggered by earthquakes cause the formation of lakes as has happened at many places in the Himalayan region.

Destructive effects :

1. Human beings have settlements in active earthquake zones. Most often the houses and other structures collapse causing great loss of property.
2. The forces of uplift and subsidence also cause submergence of coastal parts. For example Dwarka in Gujarat which now lies submerged under the sea.
3. Earthquakes have changed the course of rivers in the past. They have thus rendered many areas unsuitable for irrigation and agriculture. They cause danger to human life.