Magnitude vs. Seismic Intensity: Energy Scale vs. Local Shaking Explained

1. The Difference Between Magnitude and Intensity

Magnitude measures the total energy released at the earthquake's source, whereas Intensity measures the strength of shaking experienced at a specific geographic location.

2. The Lightbulb Analogy

Think of Magnitude as the wattage rating of a lightbulb (a 100W vs. a 1,000W bulb). Intensity is how bright the light appears on your desk depending on your distance from the bulb.