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Earthquakes
Figure 5.3.6, Earthquake Classification
You have learned how earthquakes occur; now let's take a look at the damage
that an earthquake inflicts. When learning about earthquakes, it is helpful to
know that the size of an earthquake is classified by magnitude. Refer to Figure
5.3.6 to the right for a chart that indicates the classification of each
magnitude. With every incremental increase of magnitude, such as between a
magnitude 4.0 earthquake and a magnitude 5.0 earthquake, the shaking is ten
times more intense.
Many organizations, including the US government, keep track of
earthquakes and other natural disasters. For example, read this
section of a news release issued by the US Department of the
Interior.
The US Geological Society monitors every single earthquake that occurs each
day. Most of the earthquakes are minor and may not even be felt by anyone. You
might find it interesting to check out all of the earthquakes that have occurred
today or in the recent past. It is easy to do and quite interesting; just go to
the Web site below.