Scientists ascertain that moon can cause earthquakes

Columbia: New research has revealed that the moon, Earth's natural satellite, exerts forces that could potentially trigger earthquakes on our planet.

While the moon's impact on Earth's oceans has long been recognized, scientists now have comprehensive data sets showing its significant influence on our planet's seismic activity.

According to Chris Scholtz, a geologist and professor emeritus of earth and environmental science at Columbia Climate School, this correlation is considered credible.

The impact of the moon's pull is particularly evident in underwater earthquakes.

Studies published in the journal Science have shown that underwater fault lines experience increased seismic activity corresponding to the tides of the ocean.

Scholtz explained, "Earthquakes are about ten times more likely to occur when the tide has receded."

Further research published in Nature Communications revealed that the weight of the ocean pressing down on a volcano's magma chamber caused earthquakes.

The tides, which inflate and deflate the magma chamber, create additional pressure on fault lines, increasing the likelihood of earthquakes.

In addition to underwater seismic activity, the moon's gravitational pull also affects rocks on Earth. These rocks experience slight bulging and squishing due to the moon's gravitational forces.

While the moon does not directly cause earthquakes, it can provide the final push for rocks that are already on the verge of collapse.

When tectonic forces have already overstressed rocks, even a small stress from the moon's pull can create cracks and trigger earthquakes.