Which term is used for the measure of earthquake intensity at a particular location?

The term used for the measure of earthquake intensity at a particular location is magnitude. Magnitude quantifies the energy released during an earthquake and is typically measured on scales such as the Richter scale or the moment magnitude scale. This measurement reflects how strong an earthquake is and is an essential aspect of seismology.

Magnitude provides a standardized basis for comparing the size of various earthquakes regardless of the location from which they are recorded. It indicates the overall seismic activity and is crucial for understanding the potential impact on structures and the surrounding environment.

In contrast, ground displacement refers to the actual movement of the earth's surface as a result of seismic activity, which is a consequence of the earthquake rather than a measure of its intensity. Seismic waves are the energy waves that travel through the Earth during an earthquake, and while they are related to the earthquake's characteristics, they do not specifically quantify intensity. The epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above where the earthquake originates; while it is a key location in analyzing earthquake effects, it does not describe intensity.