In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with Lynn Sykes on his new book, Plate Tectonics and Great Earthquakes: 50 Years of Earth-Shaking Events. Andrew and Lynn discuss how the theory of plate tectonics transformed earth science and the petroleum industry, how earthquakes are more damaging in the Central and Eastern parts of the United States, the role Maurice Ewing played in plate tectonics and Lynn's career, and more.

Learn more about Dr. Sykes' book at https://cup.columbia.edu/book/plate-tectonics-and-great-earthquakes/9780231186889.

Interviewee biography

Lynn R. Sykes is Higgins Professor Emeritus of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory. His application of earthquake science to monitoring underground explosions was crucial to treaties limiting nuclear testing. He is the author of Silencing the Bomb: One Scientist’s Quest to Halt Nuclear Testing and Plate Tectonics and Great Earthquakes: 50 Years of Earth-Shaking Events.

Credits

Interview: Lynn Sykes

Original music by Zach Bridges.

This episode was hosted, edited, and produced by Andrew Geary. Special thanks to the SEG podcast team: Jennifer Crockett, Ally McGinnis, and Mick Swiney.

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