Earthquakes with hypocenters less than wha... - MrProfessor

Practice this MCQ: Earthquakes with hypocenters less than what depth typically produce the most major Tsunamis?. Check correct answer and detailed expl...

Explanation

Tsunamis are most often generated by earthquakes with hypocenters shallower than 50 km because shallow-focus quakes cause greater vertical displacement of the seafloor, which is the primary mechanism for tsunami formation. Deeper earthquakes dissipate energy before reaching the surface, making them less likely to produce major tsunamis.