The Moment Magnitude Scale (Mw) is a modern method used to measure the size of earthquakes. It calculates the total energy released during an earthquake by analyzing the seismic waves and the area of the fault that slipped. This scale provides a more accurate representation of an earthquake's strength compared to older scales, especially for larger events.
Unlike the Richter Scale, which was limited to local measurements, the Moment Magnitude Scale is applicable globally and can assess earthquakes of any size. It is widely used by seismologists and is essential for understanding the potential impact of seismic events on communities and infrastructure.