Question

If a natural disaster is classified as 'geophysical,' what does this imply about its origin?

• A. It originates from water-related processes.
• B. It originates from biological sources.
• C. It originates from the Earth's solid surface and interior processes.
• D. It originates from atmospheric conditions.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. It originates from the Earth's solid surface and interior processes.

• Earth's Interior: These disasters stem from forces and activities deep within the Earth's crust, mantle, or core.

• Solid Earth Processes: They are a result of geological phenomena, such as plate tectonics (movement of the Earth's large crustal plates).

• Examples: Common geophysical disasters include:

  • Earthquakes: Caused by the sudden release of energy due to shifts along fault lines.

  • Volcanic Eruptions: Involve the expulsion of magma, ash, and gases from the Earth's interior through vents.

  • Tsunamis: Often triggered by large underwater earthquakes or landslides.

  • Landslides (geological): While sometimes influenced by rain, their fundamental origin relates to the instability of geological materials on slopes.