Every yearearthquakes are responsible for a large number of deaths and a vast amount ofdestruction in various parts of the world.Most of these damaging earthquakes

occur either in anarrow belt which surrounds the Pacific Ocean or in a line which extends from Burma to the Alps in Europe.Some of the destruction is directly caused by

the quake itself. Anexample of this is the collapse of buildings as a result of the quake itself.Other damage results from landslides or major fires which are initiated by the

quake.

2.There are about amillion quakes a year. Fortunately,however,not all of them are destructive.Theintensity of an earthquake is measured on the Richter Scale,which goes

from 0 upward. Thehighest scale recorded to date is 8.9.Major damage generally occurs from quakesranging upwards from 6.0.

3.The actual causeof the quake itself is the breaking of rocks at or below the earth's surface.This is produced by pressure which scientists believe may be due to a number of

reasons, two ofwhich are the expansion and contraction of the earth's crust and continentaldrift.

4.In order to limitthe damage and to prevent some of the suffering resulting from earthquakes,scientists are working on ways to enable accurate prediction.Special

instruments are usedto help people record,for example,shaking of the earth.Scientists are trying tofind methods that will enable them to indicate the exact time,location and

size of anearthquake.

5.Certain phenomenahave been observed which are believed to be signs of imminentearth-quakes.These include strange behaviors of some animals,the changes in the

content of mineralwater,etc.The magnetic properties of rocks may also display special patternbefore major earthquakes happen.Not allearthquakes are strong enough___________.

A.by the quakeitself

B.not be prevented

C.to cause damage ofproperty and loss of lives

D.of a possibleearthquake

E.the unusualbehaviors of some animals