SUMMARY
The discussion focuses on calculating the magnitude of an aftershock following a 5.4 magnitude earthquake, which is 39 times less intense. Using the formula M=log(I/I0), participants are guided to first compute the intensity (I) of the original quake, then divide that intensity by 39 to find the aftershock's intensity. Finally, the magnitude of the aftershock can be derived by applying the logarithmic difference between the two intensities. The correct approach leads to a magnitude of approximately 4.6 for the aftershock when rounded to one decimal place.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of logarithmic functions and their properties
- Familiarity with earthquake magnitude scales
- Basic knowledge of intensity calculations in seismology
- Ability to perform mathematical operations involving logarithms
NEXT STEPS
- Study the Richter scale and its application in measuring earthquake magnitudes
- Learn about seismic intensity and how it relates to earthquake damage
- Explore logarithmic equations and their use in scientific calculations
- Investigate methods for predicting aftershocks based on initial earthquake data
USEFUL FOR
Students in seismology, mathematicians interested in logarithmic applications, and professionals involved in earthquake research and analysis will benefit from this discussion.
