Why the Earth Quakes - The Story of Earthquakes and Volcanoes (Paperback, Norton Pbk)

The Story of Earthquakes and Volcanoes

"An excellent survey of earthquakes and their effects--their mystery, terror, and science, and how we are learning to control their forces."--Christopher Arnold, president, Building Systems Development

We expect everything to move except the earth! Anyone who has ever experienced an earthquake or seen news footage of cracking buildings and swaying bridges can appreciate the awe and fear that moving earth can inspire. This book unravels the mystery and the marvel of one of natures most unpredictable and terrifying phenomena: the earthquake.

With a lively text and over 100 illustrations, two of the worlds premier structural engineers take us on a fascinating trip from the Earths beginnings to recent developments in seismic technology. It is one told through the stories of the worst natural disasters of all time: Lisbon, San Francisco, Alaska, Vesuvius, Krakatau, Mount St. Helens. These earthshaking events form the background for an exploration of the nature of earthquakes and volcanoes, the prediction of their behavior, and an up-to-date description of the measures we can take to protect ourselves from their destructive nature.

Matthys Levy, an architectural engineer, has won numerous awards, including the AIA Institute Honor Award. Mario Salvadori is James Renwick Professor Emeritus of Civil Engineering and Professor Emeritus of Architecture at Columbia University. Both authors are principals of Weidlinger Associates, one of Americas leading structural engineering firms, and live in New York City.