Building a physical "Earthquake Simulator" to explore the earthquake cycle in K12 outreach
Abstract
We have devised and built a physical apparatus that simulates the strain accumulation and release cycles of the earthquake cycle. The device uses elastically connected groups of cinder blocks that are pulled across a flat surface in series. Although the load point moves at constant velocity, the frictional contact of the blocks with the ground causes each group of blocks to suffer from episodes of sliding, creep, and quiescence. Each group of blocks is equipped with a 3D accelerometer of the type used in the Quake Catcher Network (QCN). We use this system as a pedagogical model for use in teaching about the earthquake cycle. We present our experiences during an experimental demonstration of its use at a large (~100 student) outreach event. We find that our "earthquake simulator" is well suited for many age groups of students.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2010
- Bibcode:
- 2010AGUFMED31B0672L
- Keywords:
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- 0805 EDUCATION / Elementary and secondary education;
- 0810 EDUCATION / Post-secondary education;
- 0845 EDUCATION / Instructional tools;
- 0850 EDUCATION / Geoscience education research