The natural disaster that involves a sudden shaking of the ground is called an earthquake. Earthquakes occur due to the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface. When stress builds up along fault lines—fractures in the Earth's crust—it can result in the release of energy, producing seismic waves that cause the ground to shake. Earthquakes can vary in magnitude and intensity, leading to potential destruction, particularly in populated areas. They can also trigger secondary disasters, such as tsunamis, landslides, or aftershocks. Preparedness and understanding of seismic activity are crucial for minimizing damage and ensuring safety in earthquake-prone regions.