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Tons of great resources for learning about the science of earthquakes.

two 2-D cross-sections of earth with curves showing path of S waves on top and P waves on bottom
P-wave and S-wave paths through the earth. Scientists discovered that Earth's outer core is liquid by observing seismic waves. P waves travel through solid and liquid, but S waves do not travel through liquid. (Public domain.)

FAQs by Category

Frequently Asked Questions about earthquakes by category. Seriously, check here first.

Earthquakes For Kids

Fun and educational resources including Science Fair ideas and earthquake science you can understand.

Science for Everyone

Science briefs about new earthquake research written for non-scientists.

Earthquake Topics

Learn about a variety of earthquake topics. USGS resources and links to outside educational resources. Browse or search.

Today in Earthquake History

What earthquakes happened on this same day in past years? What about on your birthday?

Earthquake Glossary

200+ earthquake terms with a definition and image.

Prepare

Learn what you can do to prepare for an earthquake… before, during, and after.

Google Earth™/KML Files

Downloadable layers for display in Google Earth.™

Earthquake Summary Posters

For significant earthquakes: ppicentral area, plate tectonic environment, earthquake history, and generalized seismic hazard of the region.

Photos, Videos, and Podcasts

Selected lists of earthquake damage, faults, and effects photos, videos, and podcasts.

Educational Publications

Selected publications about earthquakes In plain language.