Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. The Earth’s crust is made up of several large plates that move slowly over time. When two plates collide or rub against each other, they can create friction and build up energy. When the energy is released, it causes seismic waves that can result in ground shaking and displacement.

Seismic activity is a measure of the energy released during an earthquake and is typically measured using seismometers. These devices can measure the intensity and duration of seismic waves and can be used to detect earthquakes before they occur. Understanding seismic activity is important for predicting and preparing for earthquakes and minimizing their impact on society.