Earthquakes are probably one of the most frightening and destructive happenings of nature that man experiences. They have caused the death of many human beings, much suffering and greatly damage to property. Today, the study of earthquake 62．______ has grown greatly with scientists all over the world 63．______ investigating the causes of earthquakes. Scientists hope that their studies will improve ways of predicting earthquakes and also develop ways to reduce its destructive effects. 64．______ The scientific study of earthquakes is fairly new. Until the 18th century many factual descriptions of earthquakes were 65．______ recorded. In general, people did not understand the cause of earthquakes. Many believe they were a punishment from God 66．______ and a warning for them to repent (忏悔). One early theory was that earthquakes were caused by air rushed out the caves deep in the 67．______ interior of the earth. On Nov.1,1755, a serious earthquake occurred near Lisbon, Portugal. Shocks from the quake had felt in many parts of the world. 68．______ After the quake, Portuguese priests were asked to observe and to make written records. These records were the first system attempt 69．______ to document the effects of an earthquake. Since that time, detailed records have been kept to almost every major earthquakes. 70．______ Currently, scientists are making studies to enable them to predict earthquakes. But at the present time, the ability to predict the time, place, and size of earthquakes are very limited. 71．______