Earthquakes *
*Note: This is an abbreviated Project Idea, without notes to start your background research, a specific list of materials, or a procedure for how to do the experiment. You can identify abbreviated Project Ideas by the asterisk at the end of the title. If you want a Project Idea with full instructions, please pick one without an asterisk.
Abstract
Visit the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program to find out about global patterns of earthquake incidents (USGS, 2006). Can mapping earthquakes help identify fault lines? They also have a list of science fair project ideas. Another great resource for earthquake-oriented science fair projects is by Jeffery Barker (Barker, 1994). Build a model to study the forces of an earthquake using sandpaper-covered blocks. What are the forces involved? How are stress and friction in balance along a fault line? How would changing the grit of the sandpaper affect your model? You can also use a slinky to investigate the difference between P and S seismic waves. How do they compare? You can also do an experiment to test different building designs for earthquake stability. Which designs are most stable? (Barker, 1994; USGS, 2006)Share your story with Science Buddies!
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Last edit date: 2013-01-10
Bibliography
- Barker,J., 1994. "Demonstrations of Geophysical Principles Applicable to the Properties and Processes of the Earth's Interior," Presented at the NE Section GSA Meeting, Binghamton, NY, March 28-30, 1994. [access 1/27/10] http://bingweb.binghamton.edu/~jbarker/demos.html.
- USGS, 2006. "Earthquake Hazards Program," United States Geological Survey (USGS) [accessed 3/23/06] http://earthquake.usgs.gov/.
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