World earthquake science knowledge 6

1. How to repair old houses in a timely manner?

A: To ensure the safety of old houses, regular maintenance is essential. Cracks or signs of wear on walls should be addressed immediately. Earth walls that are prone to weathering and cracking need frequent cleaning and protection. Roof leaks must be fixed quickly, and after heavy rain, water around the house should be drained promptly to prevent long-term damage to the foundation. In addition, wooden beams and columns should be treated for insect prevention, and any damage found should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further deterioration.

2. What housing environments in the town are adverse to earthquakes?

A: Certain areas can be particularly dangerous during an earthquake. For example, living under tall buildings, high chimneys, or large billboards increases the risk of collapse. Similarly, being near high-voltage lines or transformers can lead to electrical hazards if the ground shakes. Houses located near factories or warehouses that store hazardous materials may also face dangers such as gas leaks or explosions if the structures are damaged by seismic activity.

3. Which housing environments in rural and mountainous areas are adversely affected by earthquakes?

Answer: Houses located at the base of steep cliffs or unstable hillsides are at risk of landslides or rockfalls during an earthquake. Areas near gullies that are prone to mudslides or unstable riverbanks and lakeshores are also dangerous. In such cases, it's important to reinforce the home or consider relocation if the environment poses a significant threat.

4. Why do you say “architectural plan, earthquake first”?

A: Statistics show that between 90% to 95% of major global earthquake disasters have been caused by building collapses. This highlights the importance of designing structures that can withstand strong seismic forces. Whether it's a residential home, school, office, or critical infrastructure like power and communication systems, ensuring they meet strict seismic standards is crucial. The Chinese Earthquake Prevention and Mitigation Law emphasizes that all construction projects must follow seismic design requirements to minimize potential damage and save lives.

5. Why does the earthquake cause damage to the house?

A: The main reason houses are damaged during an earthquake is due to seismic forces. These forces are essentially inertial forces, similar to how people lurch forward when a car brakes suddenly. During an earthquake, the ground moves, creating these forces that act on buildings. If a house isn't built to resist such forces, it can suffer damage or even collapse, depending on the strength of the quake.

6. What are the factors that affect the degree of house damage at the time of the earthquake?

A: Several factors influence the extent of damage. First, the earthquake itself—larger quakes, closer epicenters, and shallower depths generally result in more severe damage. Second, the quality and structure of the house matter; well-constructed buildings with proper design are more resilient. Third, the site conditions, such as soil type and depth of the surface layer, play a role. Lastly, local topography can significantly impact how much damage occurs, with certain areas being more vulnerable due to their natural landscape.