29. Magnitude and Intensity Scales

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does magnitude measure in an earthquake?

   Hint

   Think about what happens when the earthquake occurs.

2. 2.

   Name one scale used to measure earthquake intensity.

   Hint

   Consider qualitative scales used for damage assessment.

3. 3.

   What does the Moment Magnitude Scale measure?

   • Energy release
   • Depth of earthquake
   • Intensity effects

   Hint

   Consider which scale relates to energy.

4. 4.

   True or false: The Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale ranges from 1 to 10.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the limits of the scale.

5. 5.

   Analyze the importance of earthquake preparedness based on the differences between magnitude and intensity. How would you design a building in a high-intensity area with lower magnitude expectations?

   Hint

   Consider how the building would respond differently based on local conditions despite a lower expected magnitude.

6. 6.

   Using the example of the Nepal earthquake, discuss how an earthquake's depth may influence its reported intensity despite having a high magnitude.

   Hint

   Think about how layers of earth might dampen seismic waves.