Answer :
Final answer:
Tsunamis are waves generated by the sudden displacement of water caused by undersea earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. These waves propagate across the ocean at high speeds and increase in height as they approach land. Understanding tsunami generation is crucial for coastal safety and preparedness.
Explanation:
How Tsunamis Are Generated
Tsunamis are powerful and destructive waves primarily generated by undersea earthquakes, but they can also be caused by volcanic eruptions, underwater landslides, or extraterrestrial impacts. The process begins when the movement of the seafloor displaces a significant volume of water. Here’s how it works:
- During an underwater earthquake, tectonic plates shift, causing a sudden elevation of the seafloor.
- This sudden movement lifts the water column above it, forming a bulge at the surface.
- The bulge generates a series of waves that spread out in all directions.
- These waves travel rapidly across the ocean, often unnoticed due to their low amplitude and long wavelengths.
As the tsunami waves approach the shore, their speed decreases while their height increases, sometimes resulting in waves that can exceed 30 meters (about 100 feet). This dramatic change can lead to catastrophic impacts on coastal areas, especially when populations are caught unprepared.
The most significant tsunamis often originate from earthquakes of magnitude 7.5 or greater, particularly in subduction zones like the Ring of Fire, highlighting the need for awareness and preparedness in coastal communities.
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