28.4. Correlation Between Magnitude and Intensity

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define magnitude in the context of earthquakes.

   Hint

   Think about what it tells us about the earthquake's strength.

2. 2.

   What does intensity measure?

   Hint

   Consider how people experience earthquakes differently based on location.

3. 3.

   What does magnitude measure in an earthquake?

   • The shaking felt
   • Energy released
   • Structural damage

   Hint

   Think about the scale that scientists use.

4. 4.

   True or False: Intensity and magnitude mean the same thing.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall their distinct definitions.

5. 5.

   A magnitude 5.5 earthquake occurs 10 km from a city. Using the formula I = aM + b log(r) + c (a, b, c constants provided as 1, 0.5, 2), calculate the estimated intensity.

   Hint

   Calculate log values first then substitute back.

6. 6.

   Discuss how an earthquake of magnitude 7.0 could lead to high intensity values in a poorly constructed area despite its distance.

   Hint

   Consider structural factors and soil types.