Seismograph

A seismograph is an instrument that detects and records ground movements caused by earthquakes or other seismic waves. It typically consists of a mass suspended on a spring, with a pen attached to it, and a fixed base connected to the ground. When the ground shakes, the base moves, but the mass remains relatively stationary due to inertia. This relative movement causes the pen to trace a record, called a seismogram, on a rotating drum or digital display. Seismographs help scientists measure the strength, location, and timing of seismic events, providing vital information for understanding earthquakes.