What seismic phenomenon is created by movements on the ocean floor following large earthquakes?

Prepare for the California Specific Exam for Professional Geologists with diverse question types. Utilize flashcards and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding and boost your exam readiness!

The phenomenon created by movements on the ocean floor following large earthquakes is a tsunami. This occurs when an earthquake displaces a significant amount of water due to the sudden vertical movement of the seafloor. The energy released during an earthquake can generate long-wavelength waves that travel across the ocean at high speeds.

When these waves reach shallow coastal areas, they can increase in height dramatically, resulting in devastating tsunamis that can inundate coastlines and cause considerable damage and loss of life. This contrasts with the other options. A seiche is a standing wave in an enclosed body of water, typically caused by atmospheric pressure changes. Wave surge refers to the increase in wave height due to meteorological events, such as storms. A rip tide is a strong current that moves away from the shore, caused by the movement of water, often associated with waves breaking on the beach. Each of these phenomena differs fundamentally from the destructive and large-scale impact of a tsunami generated by massive underwater earthquakes.

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