Liquefaction occurs when:

Liquefaction occurs when water-saturated, granular sediments like silts, sands, and gravel, which are free of clay particles, transform from a solid to a liquefied state under increased water pressure.

The process occurs under specific conditions, primarily in loosely packed, water-saturated soils during strong ground motion. The susceptibility of an area to liquefaction depends on several factors, including the type of soil, the level of water saturation, and the intensity of the earthquake shaking.

From the perspective of engineers, urban planners, and emergency management professionals, the attributes of liquefaction represent a significant challenge in earthquake-prone areas. These professionals emphasize the importance of recognizing areas susceptible to liquefaction through geological surveys and soil analysis to inform the design and construction of buildings and infrastructure.