How are earthquakes measured?

The earthquake events are measured either according to the magnitude or intensity of the shock. 

• The magnitude scale is known as the Richter scale. The magnitude relates to the energy released during the quake. The magnitude is expressed in absolute numbers ranging between 0 and 10.
• The intensity scale is named after Mercalli, an Italian seismologist. The intensity scale takes into account the visible damage caused by the event. The range of intensity scale is between 1 and 12.

Further Reading:

• Earthquake – Body Waves, Causes & Types
• Geography Notes