Problem 1: What kind of earthquakes are usually the most destructive, and what kind of fault and seismic waves are they? Where on Earth are these faults mostly found?
Problem 2: How soon will scientists be able to forecast powerful earthquakes? Why are the predictions so challenging?
Problem 3: Why do scientists determine earthquake magnitudes using both the Richter and Mercalli Scales? Which do you think is more true?
Problem 4: Why are the Cascadia Subduction Zone and the New Madrid Seismic Zone of concern to scientists?
Problem 5: What precautions might those who live in the Cascadia or New Madrid zones take to lessen their risk?