Seismogram facts for kids
A seismogram is a record of an earthquake induced motion at a measuring station as a function of time. Seismograms are usually taken by seismometers. Seisometers record motions in three cartesian axes (x, y, and z), with the z axis perpendicular to the Earth's surface and the x- and y- axes parallel to the surface.
Historically, seismograms were recorded on paper attached to rotating drums. Some used pens on ordinary paper. Others used light beams to expose photosensitive paper. Today, almost all seismograms are recorded digitally to make analysis by computer easier. Seismograms are very important for measuring earthquakes using the Richter scale.
Images for kids
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A set of seismograms for an earthquake from the USGS (click to see large version)
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A container that stores a Develocorder film reel
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A Develocorder film reel
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Viewing of a Develocorder film
