A seismograph is an instrument used to detect and record the vibrations caused by earthquakes and other seismic activities. It consists of a mass suspended on a spring, which remains stationary while the ground moves during an earthquake. The movement of the mass is recorded on a rotating drum or digital device, creating a visual representation of the seismic waves. Seismographs are essential tools in the field of seismology, the study of earthquakes and the Earth's internal structure. They help scientists analyze the strength, duration, and location of seismic events, contributing to our understanding of earthquake behavior and improving safety measures in affected areas.