Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Practice Test

What is the term for the record of an earthquake's seismic waves produced by a seismograph?

1. Seismoscope

2. Seismograph

3. Seismogram

4. Seismic wave

The correct answer is: Seismogram

The term for the record of an earthquake's seismic waves produced by a seismograph is "seismogram." A seismogram is a visual representation that documents the motion of the ground as seismic waves occur, and it is crucial for scientists to analyze an earthquake's strength, duration, and the nature of the seismic activity. These records allow seismologists to interpret and understand the characteristics of the earthquake and its impact on the earth’s crust. On the other hand, a seismograph is the instrument used to detect and measure these seismic waves, but it does not refer to the record itself. A seismoscope is an old term that refers to an instrument that measures the motion of the ground but is not commonly used in modern science. Seismic wave refers to the actual waves that travel through the Earth during an earthquake, but again, this does not describe the recording of those waves. Therefore, the correct choice is seismogram, which specifically indicates the recorded data resulting from the measurement of seismic activity.