Question:

Is there a maximum limit of magnitude for an earthquake?

by Guest23127600  |  1 year, 2 month(s) ago

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I want to know, Is there a maximum limit of magnitude for an earth quake?

 Tags: earthquake, limit, magnitude, maximum

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  1. Guest23127601
    Though theoretically there is no mathematical limit with the magnitude calculation, physically there is a limit. The magnitude is related to the surface area of the blocks of rock which rub together and in doing so give rise to seismic waves. Since the tectonic plates have finite dimensions, the magnitude must therefore also reach a maximum. It is believed that the greatest earthquakes can reach magnitude 9.5, which corresponds to the magnitude of the Chilean earthquake.

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