Solve the problem.
-How many times more intense is an earthquake that measures 7.87 on the Richter scale than the minimum level for comparison? Round answer to the nearest integer.
A)79
B)8
C)74,131,024
D)787

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Richter scale is logarithmic, meaning each whole number increase represents a tenfold increase in amplitude. The minimum level for comparison is often considered to be a "0" on the scale. Therefore, an earthquake measuring 7.87 is 10^(7.87) times more intense than a level 0 earthquake. This calculation gives a value of approximately 74,131,024 times more intense, rounding to the nearest integer.

Solve the Problem. -How Many Times More Intense Is an Earthquake That Measures