La Fabbrica della Scienza | A catastrophic “selfie …of nature!

Earthquakes are sudden and abrupt movements of the earth’s crust that spread throughout the surface in the form of horizontal or vertical tremors, i.e. with undulatory or jerky movements. These phenomena are due to the sudden and abrupt breaking of a layer of deep rocks. From the rupture zone (earthquake hypocentre) great energy is released in the form of seismic waves which propagate in every direction and make the ground tremble when they reach the earth’s surface.

The effect of the earthquake is greater in the area located on the vertical axis of the hypocentre (earthquake epicentre) and tends to decrease the further you move away from it. Two different scales are used to assess the intensity of an earthquake: the Mercalli and Richter scale. The first measures the intensity and the second the amplitude of the earthquake waves. Unfortunately, although it is possible to measure and track earthquakes, they still are unpredictable. Therefore, the only weapon is prevention: it is very important to make buildings and infrastructures safe, and teach the population how to live for long periods without water and electricity.

Have you ever climbed to the terrace of a skyscraper with a view of Mount Fuji? How would you react if an earthquake suddenly happened? To find out, come and visit us at The Science Factory, where you can experience the emotion and satisfy the curiosity of experiencing first-hand the power released by nature. Over the centuries, these phenomena have always aroused great attention and fascination: in Jesolo, you will be able to get to know them closely.

For further information: www.lafabbricadellascienza.it