An aftershock is a smaller earthquake that occurs after a larger earthquake, usually within a short period of time and in the same area.
The magnitude of an aftershock is measured using the same scale as the initial earthquake, known as the Richter scale. This scale measures the energy released by the earthquake, with each whole number representing a tenfold increase in magnitude.
No, the magnitude of an aftershock cannot be predicted. While scientists can estimate the likelihood of aftershocks occurring in a certain area and time frame, the specific magnitude of each aftershock is unpredictable.
Not necessarily. While aftershocks are typically smaller than the initial earthquake, there have been cases where aftershocks have been larger. This is known as a "doublet" event.
Aftershocks can continue for weeks, months, or even years after the initial earthquake. However, they generally decrease in frequency and magnitude over time.