Final answer:
Soil liquefaction during an earthquake can cause saturated soil to behave like a liquid, leading to failure of the structural foundations of dams and buildings. Resonance and constructive interference of seismic waves can amplify damage, especially in larger structures like gymnasiums and churches.
Step-by-step explanation:
Soil liquefaction is a significant contributor to the damage to dams and buildings during an earthquake because it undermines the structural integrity of the foundations. During an earthquake, the intense shaking can cause saturated soil to behave like a liquid. This phenomenon occurs when loose, water-logged sediments lose their strength and stiffness in response to the applied stress of seismic waves. As a result, the soil's ability to support structures is significantly reduced, leading to the potential collapse of dams and buildings.
For instance, the resonance of seismic waves can cause buildings to vibrate at their natural frequency, specially if the driving frequency of the earthquake matches the natural frequency of the structure. This can lead to a disproportionate amount of damage, sometimes causing larger buildings with specific natural frequencies or structural characteristics, such as gymnasiums and churches, to fail more than family homes.
Additionally, the phenomenon of constructive interference between seismic waves can exacerbate damage in certain areas, making the effects of an earthquake highly unpredictable.