Types of earthquake

Earthquakes are when the ground shakes. They happen because parts of the Earth called tectonic plates move. There are different kinds of earthquakes, and each one has its own special way of happening.

Tectonic earthquakes are the most common. They happen when big blocks of Earth’s crust shift suddenly. This movement makes the ground shake. These earthquakes often happen along places where plates meet, called fault lines.

Volcanic earthquakes are smaller and happen near active volcanoes. They occur when hot liquid rock called magma moves underground. This can make the rocks break and the ground shake a little.

Collapse earthquakes are rare. They happen in places where there are underground spaces, like old mines or tunnels. When the roof of these spaces can’t hold its weight anymore, it falls down, making the ground above shake.

Learning about different kinds of earthquakes helps scientists understand our planet better and teaches us how to stay safe when the ground moves.