But first, let's understand
how earthquakes actually work.

The story begins deep underground,
where immense forces have been
building for decades.

Tectonic Pressure Buildup

For years, decades, even centuries, massive tectonic plates lock together along fault lines. Stress accumulates as they attempt to move, building enormous pressure that must eventually be released.

Catastrophic Energy Release

When the fault finally snaps, all that stored energy is released instantaneously. Seismic waves race outward at incredible speeds, carrying energy equivalent to multiple nuclear bombs.

How Much Energy Is That?

Use the controls to compare earthquake energy with nuclear explosions!

Your Prediction

Predict the relationship between magnitude and deaths.