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What do you mean by earthquake? A nuclear device can cause a earthquake like seismic shock wave that feels like an earthquake. For example when North Korea detonated it's first two nuclear fission bombs in 2006 and 2009, we could determine the strength of the devices by the seismic wave that was created. In your question can a nuclear explosion actually cause an earth quake (sliding of tectonic plates), the answer is no. Nuclear detonations even under ground do not have enough energy to shift the plates.

Objectively, the known fact at present may be that it doesn't, but, if the energy released can be read as a seismic wave, then there are a matter of unknown variables within the premise that it won't trigger a reaction to the tectonic plates.

Those tests are very limited and in controlled conditions. So you simply cannot say a definitive no to the potential variables involved within the physical science of a chain reaction in a sensitive area - like along or in the Ring of Fire. You cannot predict the weather with 100% certainty all the time even with todays modeling technology just as they could not predict the catastrophic effects of Katrina on the surge protection or the devastation reactive effect of the 2004 Indian ocean earthquake/tsunami. You detonate a force of a nuclear weapon in an area that has high sensitivity to seismic activity you better pray that the 50/50 chance of that last line of defense and the above comment is positively infallible.

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How does the energy released by an earthquake compare to the energy of a nuclear weapon?

* Earthquake Richter 5.0 = 32 kilotons nuclear weapon, like was used at Nagasaki * Earthquake Richter 6.0 = 1 megaton nuclear weapon * Earthquake Richter 7.0 = 32 megaton nuclear weapon * Earthquake Richter 7.1 = 50 megaton nuclear weapon, Tsar Bomba, the largest nuclear weapon ever tested * Earthquake Richter 8.0 = 1 gigaton nuclear weapon, much larger than anything ever made


Can a solar eclipse cause an earthquake?

No, a solar eclipse cannot cause an earthquake.


What are explosion earthquakes?

An explosion earthquake is a seismic event caused by the sudden release of energy resulting from detonations of explosives, volcanic eruptions, or industrial accidents. These explosions generate seismic waves that mimic those produced by natural earthquakes, but with distinct characteristics that seismologists can use to differentiate them.


What is the name of the point on the surface of the earth's surface that is directly above the hypocenter or focus or where an earthquake or underground explosion originated?

The point on the Earth's surface directly above the hypocenter of an earthquake or underground explosion is called the epicenter. It is the point where the seismic waves created by the event first reach the surface.


How many nuclear reactors were affected by the earthquake?

As of 2021, only two nuclear power plants were affected by earthquakes – Fukushima Daiichi and Onagawa. Both facilities experienced damage following the earthquake and subsequent tsunami in 2011.

Related Questions

Was the earthquake in japan caused by an explosion of a nuclear power station?

no it was caused by the tectonic plates the nuclear plant disaster happened because of the earthquake


If a nuclear weapon exploded on a nuclear Power Plant would the explosion radius increase?

No, a nuclear explosion on a nuclear power plant would not cause the explosion radius to increase. The explosion radius would be determined by the yield of the nuclear weapon itself, not by the presence of the power plant.


How are the Chernobyl explosion and Japanese earthquake alike?

The both ultimately resulted in the release of radioactive material from a nuclear reactor into the environment.


What are the method of controlling nuclear explosion?

nuclear explosion?


How focus and epicenter related?

The focus and epicenter are both "earthquake points". The focus is the point of origin of an earthquake or underground nuclear explosion while the epicenter the very center or focal point.


What is a nuclear explosion which releases energy equivalent to 7000000 tons of TNT?

Such an explosion is often referred to as a "7 megaton nuclear explosion." It releases energy equivalent to 7 million tons of TNT and can cause widespread destruction over a large area.


What happened some years ago in Russia from nuclear explosion?

When and what explosion? One of the nuclear test shots. If so which?Remember Chernobyl was not a nuclear explosion, it was a steam explosion and graphite fire.


Will radiation cause the salvation or destruction of mankind?

No. The chances are unlikely. 0.0000039% Is the chance for an nuclear Explosion.


Causes the greatest damage in explosion?

Nuclear weapons cause the greatest damage in explosion. This will affect even the atmosphere for a very long period of time.


Is it safe inside in an earthquake?

No. Things could fall down in an earthquake. Also the building could collapse or a gas line could brake and cause an explosion if it is ignited.


What do you get when you mix an acid with water?

A nuclear explosion which may cause a nuclear holocaust. If you do this, it could cause the end of the world. This is a secret held by the CDC. Whatever you do, do not do this. It could cause the end of all life as we know it. If you do do it, and you live, drink it.


What isNuclear fallout?

Its the nuclear dust and debris that settles in the air after a nuclear explosion. This then comes down on the ground. Its a mixture of nuclear particles, and debris from the surrounding area. This can cause radiation sickness.