how does a tsunami happen Related: NCERT Solutions: Poem - Geography ...
Tsunamis are one of the most powerful and destructive natural disasters that can happen on Earth. They are large ocean waves caused by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, or even asteroid impacts. Tsunamis can travel thousands of miles across the ocean and cause massive destruction when they hit the shore. In this guide, we will discuss in detail how a tsunami happens.
Causes of Tsunami
- Earthquakes: The most common cause of a tsunami is an earthquake under the sea floor. When two tectonic plates move against each other, it creates massive energy that causes the sea floor to shift, and a large amount of water is displaced causing waves.
- Volcanic eruptions: A volcanic eruption under the sea can also cause a tsunami. The eruption can cause a sudden displacement of water, creating massive waves that can travel across the ocean.
- Landslides: Landslides that happen underwater can also cause a tsunami. When a large amount of sediment, rock, and debris move under the sea, it can create a powerful wave that can cause destruction on the shore.
Formation of Tsunami
- When an earthquake, volcanic eruption, or landslide happens underwater, it creates a large amount of energy that displaces water and creates waves.
- The waves can travel at speeds of up to 500 miles per hour across the ocean, but they are not noticeable in deep water because they have a long wavelength and low height.
- As the waves approach the shore, the water becomes more shallow, and the waves become taller and more powerful.
- The first wave may not be the largest one, and one wave can be followed by several others, causing more destruction.
Impact of Tsunami
- Tsunamis can cause massive destruction on the shore, destroying buildings, homes, and infrastructure.
- The waves can also cause flooding and landslides, which can lead to further destruction and loss of life.
- Tsunamis can travel across the ocean, affecting multiple countries and continents, and cause billions of dollars in damages.
In conclusion, tsunamis are caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides that happen underwater. They form when a large amount of energy displaces water, creating waves that can travel across the ocean. Tsunamis can cause massive destruction on the shore and have a significant impact on human lives and the economy.
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