Question 1: Describe the main differences between a natural hazard and a natural disaster. Provide examples of each.

Answer: A natural hazard is a natural event that has the potential to cause harm, such as an earthquake or flood. A natural disaster occurs when a hazard causes significant damage and impacts human life or property, such as the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami.

Question 2: Explain how a volcanic eruption can lead to both immediate and long-term environmental impacts.

Answer: Immediate impacts include destruction of nearby landscapes, ash fall, and pyroclastic flows that can destroy habitats and buildings. Long-term effects may involve climate change due to ash and gases entering the atmosphere, soil fertility changes, and altered landscapes.

Question 3: List the main causes of tsunamis and describe the process that leads to their formation.

Answer: Tsunamis are mainly caused by undersea earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. When the seabed suddenly shifts during an earthquake, it displaces large volumes of water, creating waves that travel across the ocean at high speeds.

Question 4: Identify and explain three factors that influence the severity of a flood in a particular area.

Answer: Factors include: 1) The amount and intensity of rainfall—more rain increases flood risk; 2) The topography—low-lying areas are more prone; 3) Human activities such as urbanisation, which increases surface runoff and reduces natural absorption of water.

Question 5: Describe the process of how deforestation can increase the likelihood of floods.

Answer: Deforestation removes trees that absorb rainfall and slow runoff. Without trees, water flows quickly over the land surface into rivers, increasing the risk of flooding downstream, especially during heavy rains.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram showing the typical flow of lava during a volcanic eruption. Label the main features such as 'Lava Flow', 'Vent', and 'Crater'.

Answer: A sketch should include a volcano with a central vent from which lava flows down the sides, forming a broad lava flow. The crater is at the top of the volcano where the eruption occurs. Labels should identify 'Lava Flow', 'Vent', and 'Crater'.

Question 7: Explain why some areas are more vulnerable to earthquakes than others. Include at least two reasons in your answer.

Answer: Some areas are more vulnerable because they are located near active tectonic plate boundaries where stresses build up and release energy as earthquakes. Additionally, areas with poor construction standards are more affected during seismic events.

Question 8: Describe the possible social and economic impacts of a major hurricane hitting a coastal city.

Answer: Social impacts include loss of life, injuries, displacement of residents, and destruction of homes. Economic impacts involve damage to infrastructure, businesses, and tourism, leading to costly repairs and loss of income for local communities.

Question 9: Identify two ways governments and communities can prepare for natural hazards like earthquakes or floods.

Answer: Preparations include establishing early warning systems and evacuation plans, and implementing land use policies that restrict building in high-risk areas.

Question 10: Describe what a hazard map might show and how it can be used in disaster management.

Answer: A hazard map displays areas at risk from specific hazards such as floods or earthquakes, often using different colours. It helps authorities plan evacuation routes, allocate resources, and implement prevention measures.