Environmental Issues

    The present geological condition of the Earth is a result of continuous movement and alterations in most land mass eventually leading to different types of land formations and fossil foundation. One of the most acceptable theories that agree to these changes is the Plate Tectonics Theory as it defines the movement and other related motions occurring on larger parts of the Earths lithosphere. These movements have somehow been vital in affecting the existence of life on earth due to its ability to change most of the Earths physical layers. The Plate Tectonics Theory states that the Earth is divided into major tectonic plates and these plates, when creating a motion in the form of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, land and ocean trench formation, create either a convergent or a collisional boundary (Lutgens et al, 2002).

    This theory helped explain the existence of fossilized marine life in the Ural Mountains in Australia. As part of a greater land mass, the Pangaea, Australia has continuously created a massive motion, which includes earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. These volcanic activities and land formation have embedded most forms of life making some of them extinct (Butler, 2001).

    In the case of earthquakes however, seismic motions triggers the creating of waves that are manifested through shaking and movements. When geological faults are ruptured, earthquake occurs. The initial rupture is usually the focus and in continuous movements creates a number of foci. Some foci sends strong motion waves that are then felt above the ground level also known as the epicenter that is directly above the foci (NASA, 2005).

    Moreover, some faults that are experiencing an inactive creep or crawling movement can be considered safe. However, as these creates a relatively consistent yet minor movements, dangers are still eminent as these may still contribute on the overall land structure and formation, thereby increasing the chances of progressing into a much stronger types of movement (Butler, 2001).