Tsunamis and earthquake thrusts

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Large earthquakes, particularly those with magnitudes of 7 or 8 or greater, do not always generate tsunamis, as the potential for tsunami formation is influenced by factors such as the earthquake's depth, location, and the amount of elastic energy stored in the crust. The recent Chilean earthquake resulted in a relatively small tsunami of about 2 meters, highlighting the variability in tsunami height based on specific geological conditions. The discussion also references the significant 2004 Banda Aceh earthquake, which had a magnitude of 9.1 and a considerable volume of displacement, leading to a much larger tsunami. Further insights can be found in resources detailing recent Indonesian earthquakes.
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I came across an interesting video on three massive earthquakes and the thrusts that caused tsunamis.


Just because an earthquake is large, i.e., mag 7 or mag 8 or greater, and in the ocean doesn't mean it will produce a tsunami. It does depend on the depth and location as well, and how much elastic energy is stored in the mass (or volume) of crust, and the displacement.
 
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Hi Astronuc

interesting video describing why there are variations in tsunami height

from what I have so far read, this latest Chilean event produced a tsunami of only ~ 2 metres ( fortunately!)

Would have been good to have seen what reasons they had considered specifically for the Sumatran event

cheers
Dave
 
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