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The Science of Earthquakes

Why They Happen and How They’re Measured

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The Science of Earthquakes

By: Daran Volcroft
Narrated by: Nick Holbrook
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About this listen

The Science of Earthquakes: Why They Happen and How They’re Measured is a compelling, accessible guide to one of nature’s most powerful and awe-inspiring forces. Whether you're a curious listener, student, or lifelong science enthusiast, this book breaks down the mysteries behind seismic activity in clear, engaging language—without oversimplifying the fascinating complexity of how our planet moves.

From the shifting tectonic plates beneath our feet to the sophisticated instruments scientists use to track tremors around the globe, this book takes you on a journey through the core science of earthquakes. Beginning with the structure of the Earth and the dynamics of plate tectonics, listeners are introduced to the fundamental causes of earthquakes and how they relate to the Earth's evolving geology.

You’ll learn how faults form, why some regions are more seismically active than others, and what actually happens beneath the surface when an earthquake occurs. Through real-world examples and historical case studies—from the devastating San Francisco quake of 1906 to the catastrophic events in Haiti and Japan—this book brings the science to life, showing how seismic waves ripple through cities and landscapes with extraordinary power.

The book also dives into the technology behind earthquake measurement. Discover how seismographs work, what the Richter and Moment Magnitude scales really mean, and why intensity and magnitude are not the same thing. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the tools seismologists use to measure, analyse, and even attempt to predict earthquakes.

In addition to the science, The Science of Earthquakes explores how society prepares for and responds to seismic disasters. What makes a building earthquake-resistant? How do early warning systems save lives? And why is public education one of the most important tools we have in the face of natural disasters?

©2025 Deep Vision Media t/a Zentara UK (P)2025 Deep Vision Media t/a Zentara UK
Earth Sciences Environment Nature & Ecology Outdoors & Nature Science Natural Disaster Inspiring
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Listener received this title free

After reading this book, I’m rethinking how prepared I am for an earthquake. It explains not just the ‘why’ but also the ‘what to do’ in case of disaster

Good Prep for Earthquake Safety Planning

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Listener received this title free

The Science of Earthquakes is one of the clearest and most interesting books I’ve read on this subject. It explains exactly how tectonic plates move and why earthquakes happen, but does it in a way that anyone can understand. I really liked how it uses real examples like the San Francisco and Haiti quakes to show how science connects to real life. If you’ve ever wondered what a seismograph really measures or how buildings withstand tremors, you’ll find it here.

A Fascinating Look at the Power Beneath Our Feet

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Listener received this title free

As someone living in California, I found this book both informative and comforting. Understanding how earthquakes work and how they’re studied helps reduce fear and encourages preparedness

Useful for People Living in Earthquake Zones

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Listener received this title free

I picked up The Science of Earthquakes because I live in a quake-prone area and wanted to learn more. I was surprised by how readable and interesting it was. The explanations of how tectonic plates shift and the technology behind measuring tremors were clear and fascinating. I especially liked the real-life case studies—it really brings home how important preparedness is.








Informative, Accessible, and Surprisingly Fascinat

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Listener received this title free

As a parent, I listened to this with my teenage kids. We were all fascinated. The historical examples helped them relate to the material, and it spurred many questions and follow up discussions

Engaging for All Ages

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Listener received this title free

The author does a great job blending technical explanations with human stories. Learning about the Haiti and Japan quakes from both a scientific and societal angle was powerful

Balanced Between Science and Storytelling

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Listener received this title free

If you’ve ever wondered why earthquakes happen or how scientists detect them, this book answers all those questions and more. It’s the kind of science communication we need more of

Perfect for Curious Listeners

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Listener received this title free

This book does an excellent job of balancing fascinating facts with practical knowledge. I liked how it covered both the why and the how—why earthquakes happen and how we measure and prepare for them. The historical case studies really helped me see the human impact and the importance of scientific advances. I feel a lot more informed about living in a quake-prone area now.









Insightful and Well-Presented

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Listener received this title free

I got this book for my teenage daughter, but I ended up reading it myself too! It makes the science behind earthquakes easy to grasp without dumbing anything down. The sections on the different ways earthquakes are measured were really eye-opening—I finally understand the difference between magnitude and intensity. This is a great read for students, teachers, or anyone who wants to understand the earth better.

Clear Explanations and Real-World Insights for All

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Listener received this title free

The case studies really helped me understand the magnitude and consequences of earthquakes. It’s one thing to learn the science, but seeing it applied in real-life situations is powerful.

Brings Earthquakes to Life with Real Examples

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