# Math Help - Using logarithm to find earthquake strength

1. ## Using logarithm to find earthquake strength

Word Problem that I'm stuck on
The common logarithm is used to measure the intensity of an earthquake on the Richter scale. The Richter scale rating of an earthquake of intensity I is given by log(I) - log(Io), where Io is the intensity of a small "benchmark" earthquake. Write the Richter scale rating as a single logarithm. What is the Richter scale rating of an earthquake for which I = 1000*Io?

2. log (I/I0). For the second part, log1000

3. Originally Posted by vidalex
Word Problem that I'm stuck on
The common logarithm is used to measure the intensity of an earthquake on the Richter scale. The Richter scale rating of an earthquake of intensity I is given by log(I) - log(Io), where Io is the intensity of a small "benchmark" earthquake. Write the Richter scale rating as a single logarithm. What is the Richter scale rating of an earthquake for which I = 1000*Io?
You should know the rule $\log A - \log B = \log \frac{A}{B}$.