What does the Richter Scale measure?

The Richter Scale measures the magnitude of an earthquake, which quantifies the amount of energy released at the source of the earthquake. It is a logarithmic scale, meaning that each whole number increase on the scale represents a tenfold increase in measured amplitude and roughly 31.6 times more energy release. By assessing the seismic waves recorded by seismographs, the Richter Scale allows engineers and seismologists to understand and communicate the severity of earthquakes, thus helping in disaster preparedness and response efforts. This focus on quantifying the energy release is crucial for evaluating potential impacts on structures and populations, distinguishing it from other measurements such as the depth of the focus or the effects felt on the surface.