Earthquakes

Figure 5.3.6, Earthquake Classification

You have learned how earthquakes occur; now let's take a look at the damage that an earthquake inflicts. When learning about earthquakes, it is helpful to know that the size of an earthquake is classified by magnitude. Refer to Figure 5.3.6 to the right for a chart that indicates the classification of each magnitude. With every incremental increase of magnitude, such as between a magnitude 4.0 earthquake and a magnitude 5.0 earthquake, the shaking is ten times more intense.

Many organizations, including the US government, keep track of earthquakes and other natural disasters. For example, read this section of a news release issued by the US Department of the Interior.

The US Geological Society monitors every single earthquake that occurs each day. Most of the earthquakes are minor and may not even be felt by anyone. You might find it interesting to check out all of the earthquakes that have occurred today or in the recent past. It is easy to do and quite interesting; just go to the Web site below.

earthquake.usgs.gov/

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