28. Magnitude and Intensity of Earthquakes

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is earthquake magnitude?

   Hint

   Think about energy and the point of origin.

2. 2.

   Name one scale used to measure earthquake intensity.

   Hint

   Focus on qualitative measurements.

3. 3.

   What does magnitude measure in an earthquake?

   • Energy released
   • Shaking intensity
   • Duration of shaking

   Hint

   Think about the source of an earthquake.

4. 4.

   True or False: The Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale is based solely on instrument readings.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how observations contribute to this measure.

5. 5.

   Given an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.5 that occurs 50 km away from a measurement point. Using hypothetical constants a = 1, b = 0.5, and c = 2, compute the expected intensity.

   Hint

   Recall the relationships between magnitude and intensity.

6. 6.

   Reflect on a recent earthquake event in your area. How did the magnitude reported compare with the observed intensity effects? Discuss the implications for local structures.

   Hint

   Think critically about building codes and local conditions.