How Earthquakes Happen
The gist
Earthquakes happen when underground rocks suddenly break or slip along cracks called faults, releasing energy that causes the ground to shake.
Explain like I'm 5
Imagine bending a stick until it snaps; the sudden break makes a quick shake, just like the ground shakes when rocks underground suddenly break.
Big picture
Understanding earthquakes helps us prepare for and reduce damage from these natural events, which can impact many people and places around the world.