Earthquake Measurement and Effects

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Richter magnitude scale

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A numerical rating system that measures the energy, or magnitude, of the largest seismic waves produced by an earthquake.

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Moment magnitude scale

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A rating scale that measures the energy released by an earthquake, considering the size of the fault, the motion along the fault, and the strength of the rocks that break.

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Modified Mercalli Intensity scale

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Measures earthquake intensity based on descriptions of the earthquake’s effects on people and structures.

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Liquefaction

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Occurs in soil under buildings, causing them to sink into the soil and collapse.

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Landslide

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The rapid downhill movement of soil, loose rocks, and boulders.

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Tsunami

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A large ocean wave generated by vertical motion of the seafloor during an earthquake.