What is measured by the earthquake magnitude scale?

The earthquake magnitude scale is designed to quantify the size and impact of an earthquake by measuring the energy released at the source of the seismic activity. This scale provides a numerical value that reflects the intensity and strength of an earthquake, which is crucial for understanding its potential destructive capacity.

By assessing the magnitude, scientists and disaster response teams can better evaluate the severity of the earthquake, predict aftershocks, and prioritize safety measures. This scale is fundamentally focused on the geological and physical aspects of the event itself, rather than the broader implications of the earthquake, such as financial costs or infrastructure safety. Therefore, option C accurately encapsulates the purpose of the earthquake magnitude scale in determining the overall strength and consequences of seismic events.