Sismos
In short
Sismos are sudden shakes or vibrations in the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates or volcanic activity. They are commonly known as earthquakes.
In plain words
The earth's outer shell is made of large pieces that constantly move. When these pieces get stuck and then suddenly slip, they release energy that makes the ground shake.
A simple example
A large fault line shifts underground, sending ripples through the soil that cause buildings to sway and cracks to appear in the road.
Why it matters
They can cause massive destruction to cities, trigger tsunamis, and change the landscape of a region instantly. Understanding them helps scientists build safer buildings and create warning systems.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse sismos with volcanic eruptions, although one can sometimes trigger the other.