Why the earth quakes
By: Matthys Levy and Mario Salvadori ; illustrations by Michael Lilly.
Contributors: Salvadori, Mario George, 1907-
Edition: 1st ed.
Publisher: Norton
Published: 1995
Place of publication: New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 215
Subjects: Volcanoes; Earthquakes
Description: We expect anything to move, but not the earth! And we certainly do not expect mountains to throw the earth's innards into the sky! Nothing is as frightening as to feel the earth shake under our feet or to see flaming lava spew from unknown depths, moving mercilessly towards us.

The aim of the authors of this book, who have personally experienced such terrifying catastrophes, is to demystify their causes and to explain in layman's terms not only their origins but how, at long last, we may defend ourselves from the powerful assaults of earthquakes and volcanoes. By exploring the miracle of the universe's creation, Why the Earth Quakes leads the reader through a brief, fascinating voyage to the birth and growth of our planet with its cracked and constantly shifting crust.

Technical issues needed to understand the behavior of earthquakes and volcanoes such as plate tectonics and seismic gaps are explained in clear and concise terms. Over one hundred illustrations clarity them for both the general reader and the professional. One section of the book is dedicated to answering the most commonly asked questions about how to be ready and avoid the worst consequences of our earth's onslaughts.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.