Understanding Tsunamis
A Grade 8 science worksheet exploring the causes, characteristics, and impacts of tsunamis.
Includes
Standards
Topics
Understanding Tsunamis
Name:
Date:
Score:
Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Use complete sentences for short answer questions.
1. What is the primary cause of most tsunamis?
Strong winds
Underwater earthquakes
Lunar tides
Heavy rainfall
2. As a tsunami approaches the coast, what happens to its wave height and speed?
Height decreases, speed increases
Height increases, speed decreases
Both decrease
Both increase
3. A series of ocean waves caused by large-scale disturbances of the ocean, primarily underwater earthquakes, is known as a .
4. The point where an earthquake originates beneath the Earth's surface is called the .
5. Tsunamis are often referred to as 'tidal waves' because they are caused by tides.
True
False
6. The Pacific Ring of Fire is an area with a high frequency of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, making it prone to tsunamis.
True
False
7. Explain the difference between a normal ocean wave and a tsunami.
8. Describe one safety measure people can take if they are near a coast and a tsunami warning is issued.
9. The diagram below illustrates the cross-section of a tsunami. Label the following parts: Epicenter, Ocean Surface, Ocean Floor, Tsunami Wave.
A.
B.
C.
D.