Seismology, << syz MOL uh jee, >> is the study of seismic waves (shock waves) produced by earthquakes or explosions. Scientists called seismologists study these waves to learn about earthquakes and about the structure of Earth. Seismology forms a branch of geophysics, the science that applies physics to the study of Earth and its atmosphere.
Instruments called seismographs detect and record the movement of seismic waves (see Seismograph ). Seismologists use these records to determine the location and strength of earthquakes. They seek ways to predict and possibly even control future earthquakes (see Earthquake ). Scientists also use seismographs in exploring for minerals and petroleum.
