the study of earthquakes is called

the study of earthquakes is called seismology.Seismology studies the frequency, type and size of earthquakes are measured using observations by seismometers. The magnitide of an earthquake and its intesity is recorded on a numerical scale known a Richter scale. On this scale, 3 or less is hardly noticeable. Earthquakes with magnitude of more than 6.5 can cause heavy damage (earth science.2001).

The effects of an earthquake are strongest in the area which is near its epicenter. The extent of tge earthquake vibration and further damage to the region is partly dependent on the features of the ground. The worst pissible damage occurs in the densely populated areas where structures are not built to withstand intense shaking. Damage and loss of life incurred during earthquake is due to falling buildings and flying glass and objects.in certain areas, an earthquake can cause mudslides that can bury areas under it. Powerful submarine earthquakes cause tsunami or a chain of last movibg waves in the ocean that ripple outward from earthquake epicenter towards coastal areas causing surmountable damage (http\:www.USGS.Org). On an average, 1,000 earthquakes with intensities of 5.0 or greater are recorded each year.