8
AssignmentMultiple Choice

Earthquakes

Question 8 • DRHS GA-GSE Earth Systems

Which statement about the Mercalli scale is true?

Answer
A
The scale has twenty ratings for an earthquake’s effects.
B
The scale rates an earthquake based on its total energy released.
C
The scale rates an earthquake according to how much damage it causes.
D
The scale is most useful when scientists use data from three or more seismographs.

Explanation

The Mercalli scale describes an earthquake’s intensity by observing its effects on people, buildings, and the surrounding area. Thus, it rates an earthquake according to how much damage it causes. The Richter scale, not the Mercalli scale, estimates an earthquake’s magnitude based on seismic measurements.

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