Final answer:
Soils that offer substantial resistance to seismic activity may cause resonance in a structure, potentially leading to its collapse. This is due to the matching of the earthquake's frequency with the structure's natural frequency. Modifying the building designs to accommodate seismic forces is crucial for building resilience.
Step-by-step explanation:
Soils that provide appreciable resistance to seismic forces may cause resonance of the structure. During earthquakes, buildings can undergo vibrations where the frequency of the earthquake matches the natural frequency of the structure. This condition can lead to resonance, increasing the amplitude of the vibrations, which may result in structural collapse. Certain buildings, especially those that match the height where a standing wave can be set up, may be more susceptible to damage. Materials and construction techniques must be adapted to local conditions, such as the earthquake risks and the need for buildings to withstand seismic forces without collapsing.
Areas closer to an earthquake's epicenter may not experience as much damage as those farther away due to constructive interference and destructive interference of seismic waves. This interference can amplify the seismic waves at certain locations, increasing the risk of damage at distances from the epicenter.