Maanjäristysfysiikka

Maanjäristysfysiikka, known in English as seismology, is the scientific study of earthquakes and the propagation of elastic waves through the Earth. Seismologists use seismographs to record the ground motion caused by seismic waves, which are generated by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and artificial explosions. These instruments can detect even very small tremors.

The primary goal of seismology is to understand the processes that cause earthquakes, including the movement of tectonic plates, the buildup and release of stress in the Earth's crust, and the resulting seismic wave patterns. By analyzing the arrival times and amplitudes of different seismic waves, scientists can determine the location and magnitude of an earthquake, as well as the internal structure of the Earth. Different types of seismic waves, such as P-waves (primary waves) and S-waves (secondary waves), travel at different speeds and through different materials, providing clues about the composition and state of the Earth's interior, from the crust and mantle to the core.

Seismology also plays a crucial role in earthquake hazard assessment and mitigation. Understanding earthquake patterns, fault lines, and the likelihood of future seismic events helps in developing building codes, early warning systems, and emergency preparedness plans. Research in seismology contributes to our knowledge of planetary dynamics and the evolution of Earth's geological features.