29.7. Seismological Basis for Magnitude-Intensity Relationships

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define magnitude and intensity in the context of seismology.

   Hint

   Think about the differences in focus.

2. 2.

   What is an empirical relationship in seismology?

   Hint

   Consider how scientists might analyze data.

3. 3.

   What does magnitude measure in an earthquake?

   • Effects at specific locations
   • Energy released by the earthquake
   • Distance from the epicenter

   Hint

   Focus on the source of the energy.

4. 4.

   True or False: Intensity is a measure that remains constant regardless of location.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about how shaking felt can differ based on distance.

5. 5.

   Given an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.0, calculate the expected intensity at a distance of 10 km using the empirical relationship I = 0.5M - 1.0 log(R) + 2.

   Hint

   Break it down step by step; remember the log of 10 is 1.

6. 6.

   Discuss the impact of using a standardized constant in the intensity prediction formula versus adapting it to local geological conditions.

   Hint

   Think about how local conditions differ from generalized assumptions in seismic studies.