Magnitude to Energy Calculator
Enter the magnitude M used in the textbook relation to estimate energy in joules.
A QUICK WALKTHROUGH
How to use this tool
- Enter the magnitude M used in the textbook relation to estimate energy in joules.
- Estimate energy
- This is an educational approximation only. It does not identify a magnitude scale, convert arbitrary modern magnitude types to Richter, estimate intensity or damage, or use live earthquake data.
Formula
log10(E[J]) = 1.5M + 4.8
Scope
This is an educational approximation only. It does not identify a magnitude scale, convert arbitrary modern magnitude types to Richter, estimate intensity or damage, or use live earthquake data.
Source
Source: USGS Earthquake Magnitude, Energy Release, and Shaking Intensity — [USGS](https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake-hazards/earthquake-magnitude-energy-release-and-shaking-intensity)
GOOD TO KNOW
Common questions
Is this a Richter conversion or damage estimate?
No. M is the magnitude variable in the cited textbook approximation. This result is energy only, not intensity, damage, or a conversion between magnitude scales.