Earthquake Hazards MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Earthquake Hazards - Download Free PDF

Last updated on Jun 8, 2025

Latest Earthquake Hazards MCQ Objective Questions

Earthquake Hazards Question 1:

What is the name of national rating system for green buildings in India?

  1. GRIHA
  2. MAANAK
  3. GRIHMAANAK
  4. None of these

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : GRIHA

Earthquake Hazards Question 1 Detailed Solution

The correct answer is GRIHA.

Key Points

  • GRIHA stands for Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment.
  • It is the national rating system for green buildings in India, endorsed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
  • GRIHA was developed by TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute) and is aimed at achieving sustainable building design.
  • The rating system evaluates the environmental performance of a building over its entire life cycle.
  • GRIHA is designed to minimize the resource consumption, reduce waste generation, and overall ecological impact of new constructions.

Additional Information

  • LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
    • A globally recognized green building certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
    • It provides a framework for healthy, efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.
    • LEED certification is available for all building types including new construction, core & shell, schools, and retail.
    • Points are awarded based on the environmental and sustainability performance of the building.
  • IGBC (Indian Green Building Council)
    • Part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) that works to enable a sustainable built environment for all.
    • Promotes the development of green buildings and services in India.
    • Provides a wide range of services including IGBC Green Ratings, Green Building Certification, and training programs.
  • EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)
    • An innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.
    • Helps to determine the most cost-effective options for designing green buildings within a local climate context.
    • Focuses on achieving resource efficiency in energy, water, and materials.
  • BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency)
    • An agency under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, established in 2002.
    • Promotes energy efficiency and conservation across various sectors in India.
    • Introduces various programs and policies to improve energy efficiency in buildings, appliances, and industries.
    • Certifies energy-efficient buildings and products through its star rating system.

Earthquake Hazards Question 2:

Which of the following statements correctly describes a natural earthquake?

  1. Earthquakes caused by vibrations due to atomic explosions or faulty mining operations.
  2. Earthquakes resulting from the displacement of rocks along faults or movement of tectonic plates.
  3. Earthquakes that occur near a mountain or hill with volcanic activity.
  4. Earthquakes caused by human activities, such as drilling or construction.

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : Earthquakes resulting from the displacement of rocks along faults or movement of tectonic plates.

Earthquake Hazards Question 2 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Types of earthquakes
Depending upon the possible cause, the earthquakes may be classified as:

  1. Natural earthquake.
  2. Earthquakes due to induced activities.
  3. Natural earthquakes.

Natural earthquakes

  • It may be due to active faults. Movement of tectonic plates or due to volcanic eruptions. In earth's crust there are some faults which are not yet settled. The displacement of rocks along faults cause earthquake. Tectonic means large scale process affecting the structure of the earth curst. This process causes gradual movement of material within the crust of earth. Sometimes it shakes the earth crust.

Volcano

  • It is a mountain or hill having a crater through which lava, rock fragments, hot vapour and gas are or have been erupted from the earths crust. Occasionally the volcanoes become active and create earthquake near the mountain crater.

Earthquakes due to induced activities

  • These are caused by vibrations induced by atomic explosions and collapse of ground due to faulty mining.

Earthquake Hazards Question 3:

What is the usual cost range of seismic retrofitting as a percentage of a home's value?

  1. 5% to 10%
  2. 10% to 15%
  3. 1% to 3%
  4. 0.5% to 2%

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 1% to 3%

Earthquake Hazards Question 3 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Seismic retrofitting

  • Seismic retrofitting means providing earthquake resistance to an old building. Retrofitting also allows a building to withstand much greater earthquake forces then those for which it was originally designed with much less structural damage.
  • Retrofitting also means making a building re-serviceable and reusable after it has suffered moderate to major structural damages during an earthquake.
  • Aseismic retrofitting generally costs between 1% and 3% of a home's value.

Earthquake Hazards Question 4:

Which of the following categories includes important buildings on soft soil in Zone A?

  1. Category I
  2. Category II
  3. Category III
  4. Category IV

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Category I

Earthquake Hazards Question 4 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

To meet these safety requirements are presented in the following chapters for various building types. In view of the low seismicity of Zone D, no strengthening measures from seismic consideration are considered necessary except and emphasis on good quality of construction.

The following recommendations are therefore intended for Zones A, B and C. For this purpose certain categories of construction in a number of situations were defined in table.

Category Combination of Continuous for the Category
I Important building on soft soil in zone A
II Important building on firm soil in zone A
III Important building on soft soil in zone B
III Important building on soft soil in zone A
III Important building on firm soil in zone B
III Important building on soft soil in zone C
III Important building on firm soil in zone A
IV Important building on firm soil in zone C
IV Important building on soft soil in zone B
IV Important building on firm soil in zone C
IV Important building on firm soil in zone B
IV Important building on firm soil in zone C

Earthquake Hazards Question 5:

Which of the following statements best describes seismic retrofitting?

  1. Seismic retrofitting is the process of demolishing old buildings that do not meet earthquake safety standards.
  2. Seismic retrofitting involves providing earthquake resistance to an old building, allowing it to withstand greater earthquake forces than initially designed for.
  3. Seismic retrofitting is a method of building new earthquake-resistant structures from scratch.
  4. Seismic retrofitting involves temporary repairs to buildings damaged by earthquakes.

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : Seismic retrofitting involves providing earthquake resistance to an old building, allowing it to withstand greater earthquake forces than initially designed for.

Earthquake Hazards Question 5 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Seismic retrofitting

  • Seismic retrofitting means providing earthquake resistance to an old building. Retrofitting also allows a building to withstand much greater earthquake forces then those for which it was originally designed with much less structural damage.
  • Retrofitting also means making a building re-serviceable and reusable after it has suffered moderate to major structural damages during an earthquake.
  • Aseismic retrofitting generally costs between 1% and 3% of a home's value.

Top Earthquake Hazards MCQ Objective Questions

In which layer of the earth do natural earthquakes occur? 

  1. Lithosphere
  2. Inner Core 
  3. Mesosphere
  4. Asthenosphere

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Lithosphere

Earthquake Hazards Question 6 Detailed Solution

Download Solution PDF

The correct answer is Lithosphere.Key Points

  • Natural earthquakes occur in the lithosphere, which is the outermost layer of the earth.
  • It includes the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.
  • The lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates that move around on the asthenosphere, which is a more fluid layer beneath it.
  • The movement of these plates creates stress on the rocks, which can cause them to break and release energy in the form of earthquakes.
  • The lithosphere is also where most of the volcanic activity on earth occurs, as magma rises up from the mantle and reaches the surface through cracks in the crust.
  • The inner core is a solid, dense ball of iron and nickel at the center of the earth.
  • It is too deep and too hot for earthquakes to occur there.
  • The mesosphere is the layer beneath the lithosphere, and it is too solid for earthquakes to occur there as well.

Additional Information

  • The asthenosphere is a plastic layer beneath the lithosphere, where the rocks are partially molten and can flow.
    • It plays a key role in plate tectonics and the movement of the earth's crust.
  • The inner core is the hottest part of the earth, with temperatures estimated to be as high as 5,500 degrees Celsius.
    • It is also under immense pressure, which keeps it solid despite the high temperatures.
  • The mesosphere is a relatively unknown layer of the earth, as it is difficult to study due to its depth and lack of seismic activity.
    • It is thought to be a transition zone between the rigid lithosphere and the more fluid asthenosphere.

Which among the following occur when two tectonic plates are moving past each other with different speeds?

  1. Drought
  2. Earthquake
  3. Hurricane
  4. Blizzard

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : Earthquake

Earthquake Hazards Question 7 Detailed Solution

Download Solution PDF

The correct answer is Earthquake.Key Points

  • Earthquakes are caused by the movement of tectonic plates.
  • When two plates move past each other with different speeds, it creates friction and pressure that can lead to earthquakes.

Additional Information

  • Drought, hurricane, and blizzard are not caused by the movement of tectonic plates.
  • Drought is typically caused by a lack of rainfall, while hurricanes and blizzards are weather events that are influenced by atmospheric conditions.
  • Tectonic plates are large pieces of the Earth's crust that move slowly over time.
  • They can collide, move apart, or slide past each other, creating various geological features such as mountains, valleys, and volcanoes.
  • The movement of tectonic plates can also cause tsunamis, which are large waves that can be triggered by earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.
  • Tsunamis can cause significant damage to coastal areas and can be dangerous to human life.

What is the name of national rating system for green buildings in India?

  1. GRIHA
  2. MAANAK
  3. GRIHMAANAK
  4. None of these

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : GRIHA

Earthquake Hazards Question 8 Detailed Solution

Download Solution PDF

The correct answer is GRIHA.

Key Points

  • GRIHA stands for Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment.
  • It is the national rating system for green buildings in India, endorsed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
  • GRIHA was developed by TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute) and is aimed at achieving sustainable building design.
  • The rating system evaluates the environmental performance of a building over its entire life cycle.
  • GRIHA is designed to minimize the resource consumption, reduce waste generation, and overall ecological impact of new constructions.

Additional Information

  • LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
    • A globally recognized green building certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
    • It provides a framework for healthy, efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.
    • LEED certification is available for all building types including new construction, core & shell, schools, and retail.
    • Points are awarded based on the environmental and sustainability performance of the building.
  • IGBC (Indian Green Building Council)
    • Part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) that works to enable a sustainable built environment for all.
    • Promotes the development of green buildings and services in India.
    • Provides a wide range of services including IGBC Green Ratings, Green Building Certification, and training programs.
  • EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)
    • An innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.
    • Helps to determine the most cost-effective options for designing green buildings within a local climate context.
    • Focuses on achieving resource efficiency in energy, water, and materials.
  • BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency)
    • An agency under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, established in 2002.
    • Promotes energy efficiency and conservation across various sectors in India.
    • Introduces various programs and policies to improve energy efficiency in buildings, appliances, and industries.
    • Certifies energy-efficient buildings and products through its star rating system.

Earthquake Hazards Question 9:

In which layer of the earth do natural earthquakes occur? 

  1. Lithosphere
  2. Inner Core 
  3. Mesosphere
  4. Asthenosphere

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Lithosphere

Earthquake Hazards Question 9 Detailed Solution

The correct answer is Lithosphere.Key Points

  • Natural earthquakes occur in the lithosphere, which is the outermost layer of the earth.
  • It includes the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.
  • The lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates that move around on the asthenosphere, which is a more fluid layer beneath it.
  • The movement of these plates creates stress on the rocks, which can cause them to break and release energy in the form of earthquakes.
  • The lithosphere is also where most of the volcanic activity on earth occurs, as magma rises up from the mantle and reaches the surface through cracks in the crust.
  • The inner core is a solid, dense ball of iron and nickel at the center of the earth.
  • It is too deep and too hot for earthquakes to occur there.
  • The mesosphere is the layer beneath the lithosphere, and it is too solid for earthquakes to occur there as well.

Additional Information

  • The asthenosphere is a plastic layer beneath the lithosphere, where the rocks are partially molten and can flow.
    • It plays a key role in plate tectonics and the movement of the earth's crust.
  • The inner core is the hottest part of the earth, with temperatures estimated to be as high as 5,500 degrees Celsius.
    • It is also under immense pressure, which keeps it solid despite the high temperatures.
  • The mesosphere is a relatively unknown layer of the earth, as it is difficult to study due to its depth and lack of seismic activity.
    • It is thought to be a transition zone between the rigid lithosphere and the more fluid asthenosphere.

Earthquake Hazards Question 10:

Which among the following occur when two tectonic plates are moving past each other with different speeds?

  1. Drought
  2. Earthquake
  3. Hurricane
  4. Blizzard

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : Earthquake

Earthquake Hazards Question 10 Detailed Solution

The correct answer is Earthquake.Key Points

  • Earthquakes are caused by the movement of tectonic plates.
  • When two plates move past each other with different speeds, it creates friction and pressure that can lead to earthquakes.

Additional Information

  • Drought, hurricane, and blizzard are not caused by the movement of tectonic plates.
  • Drought is typically caused by a lack of rainfall, while hurricanes and blizzards are weather events that are influenced by atmospheric conditions.
  • Tectonic plates are large pieces of the Earth's crust that move slowly over time.
  • They can collide, move apart, or slide past each other, creating various geological features such as mountains, valleys, and volcanoes.
  • The movement of tectonic plates can also cause tsunamis, which are large waves that can be triggered by earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.
  • Tsunamis can cause significant damage to coastal areas and can be dangerous to human life.

Earthquake Hazards Question 11:

The operation undertaken by the Indian Army in the recent past to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in Nepal after the 2015 earthquake is called:

  1. Operation Maitri
  2. Operation Surya Hope
  3. Operation Meghdoot
  4. Operation Vijay

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Operation Maitri

Earthquake Hazards Question 11 Detailed Solution

The correct answer is option 1
Key Points
  • Operation Maitri was specifically focused on providing humanitarian assistance, medical aid, and rescue operations in Nepal after the 2015 earthquake. Hence, option 1 is correct. 
  • Operation Surya Hope: A 2013 rescue and relief mission by the Indian Army in Uttarakhand after devastating floods and landslides, aimed at evacuating stranded civilians and providing aid.
  • Operation Meghdoot: Launched in 1984, this was a military operation by the Indian Armed Forces to gain control over the Siachen Glacier in the contested Kashmir region.
  • Operation Vijay: The codename for the 1999 Kargil War operation, where the Indian Armed Forces successfully evicted infiltrators from the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Earthquake Hazards Question 12:

The earthquake-resistant construction Dhajji Dewari system is found in which of the following places of India?

  1. Jammu & Kashmir
  2. Tripura
  3. Andhra Pradesh
  4. Assam

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Jammu & Kashmir

Earthquake Hazards Question 12 Detailed Solution

The Correct answer is Jammu & Kashmir

Key Points

  • The Dhajji Dewari system, a traditional earthquake-resistant construction technique, is predominantly found in the Jammu & Kashmir region of India. 
  • Dhajji Dewari is a classic construction system prevalent in the Himalayan region, spanning both India and Pakistan.
  • It gained global recognition after the devastating earthquake that struck the Kashmir region in 2005, causing widespread destruction.

Additional Information

  • The name “Dhajji Dewari” has an interesting origin.
  • In the ancient language of carpet weavers, the term “Dhajji” is derived from a Farsi (Persian) word that describes quilt patchwork.
  • The construction technique resembles patchwork, with different patterns, and is also referred to in Indian Standard Codes as “brick nogged timber frame construction.”
  •  Dhajji Dewari involves timber framing filled with stone or brick masonry panels, using mud mortar and traditional joints.
  • The timber studs and infill masonry contribute to its earthquake resistance. Eco-friendly practices include using timber with natural resistance and avoiding hazardous materials.
  • Dhajji Dewari has been in practice for over 200 years, showcasing its resilience and adaptability to the Himalayan culture, climate, and natural environment. 

Earthquake Hazards Question 13:

What is the usual cost range of seismic retrofitting as a percentage of a home's value?

  1. 5% to 10%
  2. 10% to 15%
  3. 1% to 3%
  4. 0.5% to 2%

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 1% to 3%

Earthquake Hazards Question 13 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Seismic retrofitting

  • Seismic retrofitting means providing earthquake resistance to an old building. Retrofitting also allows a building to withstand much greater earthquake forces then those for which it was originally designed with much less structural damage.
  • Retrofitting also means making a building re-serviceable and reusable after it has suffered moderate to major structural damages during an earthquake.
  • Aseismic retrofitting generally costs between 1% and 3% of a home's value.

Earthquake Hazards Question 14:

Which type of roof is recommended for earthquake-resistant buildings with a span greater than 6 meters?

  1. Flat roof
  2. Trusses instead of rafters in sloping roofs
  3. Dome roof
  4. Roof with a single slope

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : Trusses instead of rafters in sloping roofs

Earthquake Hazards Question 14 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Doors and window openings

  • Walls with too many doors and windows close to each other collapse early. Windows should be kept as same level.
  • The total width of all openings in wall should not exceeded the length of wall.
  • Doors should not be placed at the end of the wall. They should be at least at 500 mm from the cross wall.
  • Clear width between two openings should not be less than 600 mm.

Roof

  • In sloping roofs with span greater than 6 m use trusses instead of rafters. Buildings with 4 sided sloping roof is stronger than the one with two sided sloping, since gable walls collapse early.

Earthquake Hazards Question 15:

Which building shape is considered safest for earthquake resistance according to the guidelines?

  1. L-shaped
  2. T-shaped
  3. H-shaped
  4. Square or rectangular shape

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Square or rectangular shape

Earthquake Hazards Question 15 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Building planning:

  • Symmetric plans are safer compared to unsymmetrical. Hence go for square or rectangular plans rather than L, E, H, T shaped. Rectangular plans should not have length more than twice the width.

Foundations:

  • Width of foundation should not be less than 750 mm for single storey building and not less than 900 mm for storeyed buildings.
  • Depth of foundation should not be less than 1.0 m for soft soil and 0.45 m for rocky ground.
  • Before foundation is laid remove all loose materials including water from the trench and compact the bottom.
  • After foundation is laid back-fill the foundation properly and compact.
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