An earthquake has a high magnitude but a low intensity. Which statement best explains this?(1 point)
Responses
Magnitude measures the duration of the earthquake, while intensity measures the amount of damage.
Magnitude measures the duration of the earthquake, while intensity measures the amount of damage.
Magnitude measures the energy released by the earthquake, while intensity measures the amount of damage.
Magnitude measures the energy released by the earthquake, while intensity measures the amount of damage.
Magnitude measures the energy released by the earthquake, while intensity measures its duration.
Magnitude measures the energy released by the earthquake, while intensity measures its duration.
Magnitude measures the duration of the earthquake, while intensity measures the energy released by the earthquake
Magnitude measures the energy released by the earthquake, while intensity measures the amount of damage.
Magnitude measures the energy released by the earthquake, while intensity measures the amount of damage.
The correct answer is: Magnitude measures the energy released by the earthquake, while intensity measures the amount of damage.
To understand why this is the best explanation, it's helpful to know the definitions of magnitude and intensity in the context of earthquakes:
- Magnitude is a quantitative measure of the energy released during an earthquake. It is typically calculated using seismographs, which record the amplitude (size) of seismic waves. The magnitude scale used for earthquakes is logarithmic, meaning that each whole number increase on the scale represents a tenfold increase in the amplitude of the seismic waves and approximately 31.6 times more energy released. So a magnitude 5 earthquake releases 31.6 times more energy than a magnitude 4 earthquake.
- Intensity, on the other hand, measures the effects of an earthquake at specific locations. It is a subjective measure that takes into account factors such as the amount of shaking, damage to structures, and human perception. Intensity is typically described using the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, which ranges from I (not felt) to XII (total destruction).
With this in mind, the statement "Magnitude measures the energy released by the earthquake, while intensity measures the amount of damage" is the best explanation. It correctly highlights that magnitude is related to the energy released during an earthquake, while intensity focuses on the resulting damage and effects experienced at specific locations.