What is one effective way to reduce the effects of earthquakes on buildings?

The effectiveness of deep foundations in building construction, especially in earthquake-prone areas, lies in their ability to anchor structures securely to stable soil or bedrock beneath the surface. When buildings have deep foundations, they have increased stability and resistance against the lateral forces generated during an earthquake. These forces can cause significant movement; thus, deep foundations help distribute these forces effectively throughout the structure, reducing the likelihood of collapse or severe structural damage.

In contrast, the other options might not provide the same level of protection against seismic activity. For example, large windows can increase visibility but may compromise the integrity of the building during quakes. Wood, while flexible and able to absorb some shock, may not always provide the necessary strength in high-magnitude earthquakes. Lightweight materials can reduce the overall load on a structure, but if they aren't reinforced properly or anchored correctly, they may still fail under stress. Thus, the choice of deep foundations is a well-regarded strategy in earthquake engineering, as it enhances the overall resilience of buildings to seismic events.