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Questions and Answers
What is the main purpose of a seismograph?
What is the main purpose of a seismograph?
What is the meaning of 'seismograph'?
What is the meaning of 'seismograph'?
How does a seismograph work?
How does a seismograph work?
What can scientists determine by studying the markings on a seismogram?
What can scientists determine by studying the markings on a seismogram?
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Which scale do scientists use to explain how strong an earthquake is?
Which scale do scientists use to explain how strong an earthquake is?
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Study Notes
Seismograph Overview
- A seismograph is an instrument that measures and records the motion of the ground caused by seismic waves during an earthquake.
- The term 'seismograph' combines "seismo," meaning earthquake, and "graph," meaning to write or record.
Functionality of a Seismograph
- The seismograph consists of a mass suspended by a spring, which remains stationary while the ground shakes.
- As seismic waves pass through, the base of the seismograph moves, causing the mass to stay still and recording the movement onto a rotating drum or digital medium.
Interpretation of Seismograms
- Scientists analyze the markings on a seismogram to determine the magnitude and duration of the earthquake, as well as its depth and distance from the seismograph.
- Different types of seismic waves can be identified on the seismogram, which aids in understanding the earthquake's characteristics.
Measuring Earthquake Strength
- Scientists utilize the Richter scale or the Moment Magnitude scale (Mw) to quantify and explain the strength of earthquakes.
- The Richter scale measures the amplitude of seismic waves, while the Moment Magnitude scale accounts for the seismic moment, providing a more accurate representation of large earthquakes.
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Description
Learn about seismographs, instruments used by scientists to measure and record seismic waves produced by earthquakes. Explore how these waves travel through the ground, causing the earth to shake.
