Question 1: Describe the main differences between a volcanic eruption and an earthquake in terms of their causes and the hazards they pose.

Answer: A volcanic eruption occurs when magma from beneath the Earth's crust is forced to the surface, causing lava flows, ash clouds, and pyroclastic flows. An earthquake results from the sudden movement of rocks along a fault line, releasing energy that causes ground shaking. Both pose hazards such as destruction of buildings, injuries, and loss of life, but volcanoes also produce ash fallout and lava flows, while earthquakes can cause surface rupture and tsunamis.

Question 2: Explain why some areas are more prone to flooding than others. Use geographical factors in your answer.

Answer: Areas prone to flooding are often located near rivers, coastlines, or low-lying regions where water naturally collects. Factors such as heavy rainfall, poor drainage, urban development with impermeable surfaces, and deforestation can increase flood risk. Coastal areas are also vulnerable due to storm surges and high tides, especially during storms or hurricanes.

Question 3: List three human activities that can increase the risk and severity of natural hazards.

Answer: Deforestation, urbanisation (building on flood plains), and mining. These activities can weaken natural barriers, reduce water absorption, and increase vulnerability to hazards like floods and landslides.

Question 4: Describe what happens during a tsunami and how it can affect coastal areas.

Answer: A tsunami is a series of large ocean waves caused by undersea earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. When the sea floor shifts suddenly, it displaces a large volume of water, creating waves that travel across the ocean at high speeds. When these waves reach shallow coastal areas, they increase in height and can inundate land, causing extensive destruction and flooding.

Question 5: Sketch a simple diagram to represent the process of a volcanic eruption, indicating the main features involved.

Answer: A correct sketch would include a volcano with magma rising from beneath the Earth's crust, an erupting vent releasing ash and lava, and labels indicating magma chamber, vent, ash cloud, and lava flow.

Question 6: Identify and explain two ways that governments can reduce the impact of natural hazards on communities.

Answer: Governments can implement early warning systems to alert residents of imminent hazards and enforce building regulations to ensure structures can withstand earthquakes or floods. They can also create evacuation plans and invest in infrastructure like flood barriers or earthquake-resistant buildings.

Question 7: Choose a natural hazard (earthquake, flood, hurricane, or volcanic eruption) and describe its global distribution. Which regions are most at risk and why?

Answer: Earthquakes and volcanoes are most common along the Pacific Ring of Fire, which includes countries like Japan, Indonesia, and the west coast of the Americas, due to active tectonic plate boundaries. Hurricanes mainly affect tropical regions such as the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the southern United States because these areas experience warm ocean waters that fuel storms.

Question 8: What are the short-term and long-term impacts of a major earthquake on a city?

Answer: Short-term impacts include destruction of buildings, injuries, deaths, and disruption of services like water and electricity. Long-term impacts may involve economic loss, homelessness, reconstruction costs, and psychological effects on residents. Infrastructure such as roads and hospitals may need rebuilding, and businesses may suffer extended closures.

Question 9: Explain how climate change could influence the frequency and severity of natural hazards.

Answer: Climate change leads to increased global temperatures, which can cause more intense storms, heavier rainfall, and rising sea levels. These changes can increase the frequency and severity of hazards such as hurricanes, floods, and coastal erosion, making communities more vulnerable.

Question 10: Design a simple hazard risk map outline of a coastal area prone to tsunamis and floods. Use labels to show key features such as high-risk zones.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a coastal region with the sea, a low-lying floodplain, a designated tsunami hazard zone near the shoreline, and higher-ground areas further inland. Labels should include 'Tsunami Hazard Zone', 'Floodplain', 'High Ground', and 'Urban Area'. The map should clearly indicate the potential paths of hazards.