Chapter 26, Problem 11TE

To determine

The comparison of ground shaking during a $6.6$ magnitude earthquake to a $5.6$ magnitude earthquake.

Answer to Problem 11TE

A ground shaking during a $6.6$ magnitude earthquake is approximately $10$ times greater than a $5.6$ magnitude earthquake.

Explanation of Solution

The main reason for the earthquake is due to the breakage of rocks beneath the surface of Earth. The strength of the earthquake is measured using a scale known as the Richter's scale. It is defined by the logarithm of the waves’ amplitude. As the scale uses a logarithmic function, an increase of one-point in magnitude will result $10$ in times greater shaking power of an earthquake. Thus, the ground will shake approximately $10$ times more in case of a $6.6$ magnitude earthquake as compared to a $5.6$ magnitude earthquake.

Conclusion:

Therefore, a ground shaking during a $6.6$ magnitude earthquake is approximately $10$ times greater than a $5.6$ magnitude earthquake.