The Mercalli Intensity Scale Tends to Be Very Subjective and Thus

question 46

Multiple Choice

The Mercalli intensity scale tends to be very subjective and thus is generally only used for historical earthquakes that were near people but were not recorded by seismometers.Why might the Mercalli scale be subjective?

• A)It relies on testimony from people.
• B)It does not take into account distance.
• C)It can only be used for large earthquakes.
• D)It cannot be used in heavily populated areas.

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Definitions:

Social Loafing

The phenomenon where individuals exert less effort to achieve a goal when they work in a group than when they work alone.

Group Polarization

The tendency for group members' opinions to become more extreme (either stronger or weaker) after group discussions.

Bystander Effect

A social psychological phenomenon in which individuals are less likely to offer help to a victim when other people are present.

Diffusion of Responsibility

A phenomenon where individuals in a group are less likely to take action or feel a sense of responsibility because the responsibility is perceived to be shared among all group members.