An earthquake occurs at a convergent boundary. The earthquake has a high magnitude, and an observer reports the earthquake having low intensity. Which statement about the earthquake is correct?(1 point)
can someone please help i am stuck:(
I don't see any statements from which to choose. Do you?
Sure! I'd be happy to help you understand the concept better.
In this scenario, we have an earthquake occurring at a convergent boundary. A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates collide, usually forming mountains, and is associated with intense seismic activity.
Now, let's clarify the terms "magnitude" and "intensity" as they pertain to earthquakes:
1. Magnitude: This is a measure of the total amount of energy released by an earthquake. Magnitude is typically measured using the Richter scale or the Moment Magnitude scale (Mw). It provides an objective measure of the earthquake's strength, regardless of the location of the observer.
2. Intensity: This is a subjective measure of the effects of an earthquake at a specific location. It considers factors such as damage to structures, geological effects, and human perception. Intensity is measured using the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale (MMI).
Given the information provided, the correct statement about the earthquake is that it has a high magnitude and low intensity.
This means that the earthquake has released a significant amount of energy (high magnitude) but the observed effects on the surrounding region (low intensity) are relatively mild or limited. It indicates that the earthquake, although strong in terms of energy release, may have occurred in a remote or sparsely populated area, resulting in less significant impacts.
To determine the magnitude and intensity of an earthquake, seismologists use various methods, including analyzing seismograph data, collecting reports from eyewitnesses, and assessing damage to structures and infrastructure. These measurements and observations help in assessing the overall impact and severity of an earthquake.
When an earthquake occurs at a convergent boundary and has a high magnitude but is reported to have low intensity, it indicates that the earthquake's energy was released over a larger area.
This is because the magnitude of an earthquake represents the total amount of energy released at the earthquake's source, while the intensity measures the effects and damage caused by the earthquake at specific locations.
Therefore, if an earthquake has a high magnitude but low intensity, it suggests that the energy released during the earthquake was spread out over a larger area, resulting in less concentrated shaking at any given location.