richter scale

noun

Pronunciation: ˈrɪktər skeɪl

Definition

A logarithmic scale used to measure the magnitude of earthquakes based on the energy released at the source.

Examples

• Seismologists measured the tremor at 5.4 on the Richter scale.

• The Richter scale is no longer the primary tool used by scientists, who now prefer the moment magnitude scale.

• Damage to buildings often becomes significant once an earthquake exceeds 6.0 on the Richter scale.

Synonyms of richter scale

Words with a similar meaning to richter scale:

• magnitude
• seismic scale

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