The correct option is (b).
Explanation
Earthquake protection measures in buildings are designed to minimize damage caused by ground shaking. The underlying physical principle is based on inertia and Newton’s Second Law of Motion ($F=ma$). Since the force exerted on a structure during an earthquake is proportional to its mass, lighter structures experience less force.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. In highly seismic areas, the use of lightweight materials such as mud or timber is preferred over heavy construction materials. Heavy materials increase the mass of the structure, leading to greater inertial forces during shaking, which heightens the risk of collapse and severe injury.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Due to inertia, loose objects tend to remain at rest or move independently when the building shakes. Cupboards, shelves, and heavy furniture should be firmly fixed to the walls to prevent them from toppling over and causing injuries to occupants.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. Earthquakes often damage electrical wiring and gas pipelines, leading to short circuits and fires. Therefore, functional fire fighting equipment is absolutely necessary in tall buildings to handle secondary fire hazards caused by the quake.
Key Takeaway:
Earthquake safety relies on reducing structural mass to minimize inertial forces and securing loose fixtures to prevent mechanical injuries.