Final answer:
The damages from earthquakes are experienced over a smaller area in the Eastern U.S. compared to California due to geological differences, population density, building construction materials, and plate tectonics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reason why damages may be experienced over a smaller area in the Eastern U.S. compared to an equivalent-sized earthquake in California is due to geological differences, population density, building construction materials, and plate tectonics.
In terms of geological differences, the Eastern U.S. is located on a stable interior continental crust, which tends to absorb and dampen seismic energy, resulting in smaller areas of damage. In contrast, California is located on the Pacific plate, which is constantly moving and interacting with the North American plate, leading to more frequent and powerful earthquakes.
Population density also plays a role. The Eastern U.S. generally has lower population density compared to California, which means fewer people and structures are exposed to the potential impact of an earthquake. This results in damages being experienced over a smaller area in the Eastern U.S.
Building construction materials and techniques differ between the Eastern U.S. and California. In regions prone to earthquakes, such as California, buildings are constructed using seismic-resistant designs and materials, which help to withstand the shaking. In the Eastern U.S., where earthquakes are less frequent, buildings may not have the same level of seismic resilience, leading to damages being experienced over a smaller area.
Finally, plate tectonics play a significant role in the distribution of earthquakes. The Eastern U.S. is located in the interior of the North American plate, where seismic activity is generally lower compared to the plate boundaries. In California, the San Andreas Fault and other active faults run through the state, resulting in a higher frequency of earthquakes and a larger affected area.