The National Seismic Hazard Map classified one location as having the “highest hazard” and another location as having the “lowest hazard.” Based on this classification, which conclusion can you draw between the "highest hazard" and "lowest hazard" locations?

Question

There is more likely to be an earthquake in a "highest hazard" location than in a "lowest hazard" location.
"Highest hazard" locations are better prepared for an earthquake than the "lowest hazard" locations.
There will definitely be an earthquake in the "highest hazard" location.
There will never be an earthquake in the "lowest hazard" location in the future.

Answer 1

Based on the classification provided by the National Seismic Hazard Map, the most accurate conclusion you can draw is:

There is more likely to be an earthquake in a "highest hazard" location than in a "lowest hazard" location.

This statement reflects the relative likelihood of seismic activity in the two locations. The other options are not necessarily true:

• "Highest hazard" locations being better prepared is not implied by the hazard classification.
• The statement that there will definitely be an earthquake in the "highest hazard" location is incorrect; it indicates higher likelihood, not certainty.
• Similarly, claiming that there will never be an earthquake in the "lowest hazard" location lacks basis, as low hazard does not equate to zero probability.