Question

Approximately how much more energy is released in a 6.5 Richter magnitude earthquake than in one with magnitude 5.5?

A) 3200 times
B) 100 times
C) 32 times
D) 10 times

Answer 1

An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 releases approximately 32 times more energy than an earthquake with a magnitude of 5.5.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks about the amount of energy released in earthquakes of different magnitudes on the Richter scale, specifically comparing earthquakes of magnitude 6.5 to those of magnitude 5.5. The Richter scale is logarithmic, meaning that for each whole number you go up on the Richter scale, the amplitude of the earthquake waves becomes ten times greater. However, in terms of energy release, it's approximately 32 times greater. Therefore, an earthquake of magnitude 6.5 releases about 32 times more energy than one with a magnitude of 5.5. The answer to the question would be C) 32 times.