A city experienced a major earthquake. The energy released measured 6.1 X 10¹⁷ joules. Calculate the magnitude of the earthquake using the Richter scale. A) 13.4 B) 8.9 C) 20.5 D) 14.8

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Richter scale magnitude $M_L$ can be calculated using the formula $M_L = \log_{10} \frac{E}{E_0}$, where $E$ is the energy released in joules and $E_0 = 10^{4.4}$ joules. Plugging in the given energy $E = 6.1 \times 10^{17}$ joules, we get $M_L = \log_{10} \frac{6.1 \times 10^{17}}{10^{4.4}}$. Simplifying this gives a magnitude of approximately 8.9 on the Richter scale.

A City Experienced a Major Earthquake