2.1
RA T I ONA L E
Students will operate a model to observe the type of motion that
occurs at a fault during an earthquake and explore the effects of
several variables.
F OCU S QU E S T I ON S
How much energy will a fault store before it fails?
Is this quantity constant for all faults?
OB J E C T I V E S
Students will:
1. Model the frictional forces involved in the movements of a fault.
2. Measure movement, calculate averages, and plot this information on
a graph.
3. Explore the variables of fault strength vs. energy stored.
MA T E R I A L S
for each small group
Q
1 copy of Master 2.1a, Stick-Slip Data Sheet
Q
4 sandpaper sheets, 23 cm x 28 cm (9 in. x 11 in.), in 60, 120, and
400 grit (12 sheets)
Q
Scissors
Q
Strapping tape
Q
1-1b box of sugar cubes
Q
8 thumbtacks
Q
A box of rubber bands
Q
2 large paper clips
Q
Yardstick or meter stick
Q
At least 2 m of string
Q
Large dowel or empty tube from a roll of paper towels
A G U
/
F E M A
39
S
E I S M I C
S
L E U T H S
