A scientist is studying the energy released by the latest earthquake in Mexico City, with a magnitude of 7.2. Using the logarithmic equation that measures the amount of energy an earthquake releases, how many Ergs of energy were released from this particular earthquake?

Answer 1

The logarithmic equation that measures the amount of energy an earthquake releases is given by:

E = 10^(1.5M + 4.8)

where E is the energy released in Ergs and M is the magnitude of the earthquake.

Substituting the given magnitude of 7.2 into the equation:

E = 10^(1.5*7.2 + 4.8)

E = 10^(10.8 + 4.8)

E = 10^15.6

Calculating 10 to the power of 15.6:

E ≈ 39810717055349800000

Therefore, approximately 3.981 × 10^19 Ergs of energy were released from this particular earthquake.