Magnitude Of An Earthquake Calculator

Earthquake Magnitude Equation:

\[ m = \frac{2}{3} \times \log_{10}(energy\_joules) - 3.2 \]

Earthquake Magnitude (m):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Earthquake Magnitude Equation?

The earthquake magnitude equation relates the energy released by an earthquake (in joules) to its magnitude on the Richter scale. It provides a logarithmic measure of the earthquake's size.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the magnitude equation:

\[ m = \frac{2}{3} \times \log_{10}(energy\_joules) - 3.2 \]

Where:

\( energy\_joules \) — Energy released by earthquake in joules
\( m \) — Magnitude (dimensionless)

Explanation: The equation shows that each whole number increase in magnitude represents a 31.6-fold increase in energy.

3. Importance of Magnitude Calculation

Details: Magnitude measurement helps quantify earthquake size, compare different earthquakes, and assess potential damage and effects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the energy released by the earthquake in joules. The value must be positive (energy > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between magnitude and intensity?
A: Magnitude measures energy released at the source, while intensity measures shaking strength at specific locations.

Q2: What are typical magnitude values?
A: Below 3: generally not felt; 3-3.9: often felt; 4-4.9: minor damage; 5-5.9: moderate damage; 6+: major damage.

Q3: How is earthquake energy measured?
A: Energy can be estimated from seismic moment or through analysis of seismic wave recordings.

Q4: What's the most powerful earthquake ever recorded?
A: The 1960 Valdivia earthquake in Chile (magnitude 9.4-9.6), releasing about 2×10²³ joules of energy.

Q5: Why use a logarithmic scale?
A: Earthquake energy varies over many orders of magnitude - a logarithmic scale makes these values more manageable.