24.15.1. Magnitude vs. Intensity

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does magnitude measure?

   Hint

   Think about how powerful the earthquake is.

2. 2.

   What scale measures earthquake intensity?

   Hint

   Consider which scale involves human experiences.

3. 3.

   What does the magnitude of an earthquake refer to?

   • A measure of damage
   • A measure of energy released
   • A qualitative assessment

   Hint

   It’s a number representing power.

4. 4.

   True or False: Intensity only depends on the earthquake's magnitude.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider other influencing factors.

5. 5.

   An earthquake has a magnitude of 6.5. Explain how this could impact two communities, one located very close to the epicentre and another located a hundred miles away.

   Hint

   Consider geological conditions and distance.

6. 6.

   You are an urban planner. How would you use the differences in intensity and magnitude to prepare a city for potential earthquakes?

   Hint

   Think about risk assessment and urban development.