Ep 8. Deadliest Earthquake

On November 12, 2017, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake rocked the Iran-Iraq border, killing more than 600 people and injuring thousands. This episode of NOVA delves into the science behind earthquakes, exploring the various factors that contribute to the deadliest earthquakes in history.

Starting with a brief overview of how earthquakes occur, the episode outlines how tectonic plates move and collide, causing significant seismic activity. It then delves into the various ways scientists study earthquakes, from monitoring the displacement of GPS sensors to analyzing the movement of rocks and soil. These technologies have allowed scientists to predict when and where earthquakes are most likely to occur, giving people a chance to evacuate before the disaster strikes.

However, as the episode explains, predicting earthquakes is still a complicated and imprecise science. Even with the most advanced technology, it’s impossible to know exactly when an earthquake will happen and how strong it will be. As a result, many people still find themselves caught off guard when an earthquake strikes, leading to countless deaths and injuries.

To understand why earthquakes can be so deadly, the episode looks at some of the most devastating earthquakes in history. From the 1906 San Francisco earthquake to the 2010 Haiti earthquake, NOVA outlines how each disaster was unique in its causes, but shared similar effects. Buildings collapse, roads are destroyed, and people are buried in rubble, causing widespread chaos and destruction.

One of the most fascinating sections of the episode explores how buildings can be designed and constructed to better withstand earthquakes. Engineers and architects have developed new materials and techniques to make buildings more resilient, allowing them to flex and bend during seismic activity. NOVA examines some of these innovations, from shock absorbers to base isolators, and explains how they work to keep buildings standing.

Despite these advances, the episode highlights the challenges of retrofitting existing buildings to withstand earthquakes. In many parts of the world, buildings were constructed before modern earthquake-resistant technologies were developed, leaving them vulnerable to damage during a quake. In places like Iran and Iraq, where the 2017 earthquake struck, many buildings were made of adobe or brick, which can crumble and collapse during seismic activity.

Overall, NOVA’s Deadliest Earthquake is a comprehensive look at earthquakes and their effects on people and buildings. By exploring the science behind earthquakes and examining some of history’s most devastating quakes, the episode provides viewers with a rich understanding of this powerful force of nature. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in how our planet works and how we can better prepare for the next big earthquake.