Looking for an easy-to-understand book on earthquake science?

In summary, this book discusses the key elements of earthquake engineering and structural dynamics, and is geared towards those who are not familiar with the subject matter. It is a helpful resource for those working in the field of seismic engineering.
  • #1
Muti
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Can some name easy understanding book related to earthquakes, seismic analysis so that non civil engineer or geologist etc can understand can this topic and seismic analysis basics.
 
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  • #2
It is my impression that seismic risk analyses just boil down to a fit of some power law to historic data.
 
  • #3
Muti said:
Can some name easy understanding book related to earthquakes, seismic analysis so that non civil engineer or geologist etc can understand can this topic and seismic analysis basics.
The two parts of structural analysis involve the geophysical part and the structural engineering part.

In the geophysical part, one attempts to determine the potential ground motion that are characteristic of a certain site, usually based on historical evidence, and ideally, on data collected since seismic instrumentation has been put in service. Knowing the ground motion and ground accelerations, one develops inputs into a detailed seismic analysis.

The structural engineering part involves the development of models that use inputs of ground motion and accelerations, and a detailed geometric (ideally CAD-based) model that capture the forces/accelerations on components as well as the entire structure. One then designs components and supports to withstand a best estimate (with uncertainties) design basis accident (DBA) and explore the consequences beyond the design basis.

It's probably hard to find a good comprehensive textbook developed for non-civil or non-geologist folks, since the details are quite technical.

Here are some textbooks in the fields, which might be understood by STEM majors.
http://www.structural-drafting-net-expert.com/civil-engineering-books-earthquake.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1420064959/?tag=pfamazon01-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0133749436/?tag=pfamazon01-20

This book has an interesting comment: Elements of Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics
"In order to reduce the seismic risk facing many densely populated regions worldwide, including Canada and the United States, modern earthquake engineering should be more widely applied. But current literature on earthquake engineering may be difficult to grasp for structural engineers who are untrained in seismic design. In addition no single resource addressed seismic design practices in both Canada and the United States until now. Elements of Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics was written to fill the gap. It presents the key elements of earthquake engineering and structural dynamics at an introductory level and gives readers the basic knowledge they need to apply the seismic provisions contained in Canadian and American building codes."--Résumé de l'éditeur.
 
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  • #4
As a student of seismology I found "Introduction to seismology" by Peter Shearer to be a clear concise read. As a post-doctoral seismologist I still find it to be a useful reference.
 
  • #5
Thanks a lot, I will check these books contents and reviews and pick one
 
  • #6

Related to Looking for an easy-to-understand book on earthquake science?

1. What is an earthquake?

An earthquake is a sudden shaking or trembling of the Earth's surface caused by the release of energy from movement along tectonic plates. This movement can result in the formation of cracks and fractures in the Earth's crust, creating seismic waves that can be felt at the surface.

2. How are earthquakes measured?

Earthquakes are measured using a scale called the Richter scale, which assigns a numerical value to the magnitude of the earthquake based on the amplitude of the seismic waves. The Richter scale ranges from 1 to 10, with each level representing a tenfold increase in the strength of the earthquake.

3. What causes earthquakes?

Earthquakes are primarily caused by the movement of tectonic plates, which are large pieces of the Earth's crust that shift and collide with each other. This movement can be triggered by geological processes such as volcanic eruptions or the buildup of stress along fault lines.

4. How can we predict earthquakes?

Currently, there is no reliable method for predicting earthquakes. Scientists are able to monitor and track seismic activity, but they cannot accurately predict when or where an earthquake will occur. However, ongoing research and advancements in technology may lead to better prediction methods in the future.

5. What can we do to prepare for earthquakes?

There are several ways to prepare for earthquakes, including creating an emergency kit with supplies such as food, water, and first aid items, and practicing earthquake drills with family or coworkers. It is also important to secure large furniture and objects in homes and buildings to prevent them from falling and causing harm during an earthquake.

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