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There are a number of different types of seismometers and they all work in slightly differing ways but generally are based around the same principle.

That principle is inertia. Inertia basically means that stationary masses will remain stationary until a force is applied to them. Conceptually a seismometer can be thought of as a weight or mass, suspended by springs in a frame which is bolted to the floor.

When an earthquake occurs the frame which is attached directly to the floor is caused to move by the seismic waves, however the mass / weight on the spring does not as the seismic waves do not directly affect it (their effect is dampened by the inertia of the mass and the springs). If you were to attach a pencil or pen to the weight and a piece of graph paper to the frame so that they were touching the movement of the frame relative to the stationary mass would be recorded.

Modern seismometers are much more complex than this but in essence rely on this principle.

As such seismometers measure the frequency and amplitude of the movements of ground surface as caused by seismic waves.

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Which instrument does not belong and why. Anemometer barometer thermometer seismometer?

The seismometer is the 'odd one out'. The other instruments measure factors to do with weather (wind speed, air pressure & temperature) - the seismometer measures movements in the Earth's crust.


This instrument is used to measure the intensity of an earthquake.?

A seismometer is used to measure the intensity of an earthquake by detecting and recording the ground motion caused by seismic waves. It provides data on the amplitude and frequency of the seismic waves, which helps in determining the earthquake's magnitude and duration.


What detects the motion of ground waves in an Earthquake?

A seismometer or seismograph detects the motion of ground waves during an earthquake. These instruments measure the vibrations of the ground caused by seismic waves and help scientists monitor and study earthquakes.


What tool is used to measure an earthquake?

A seismometer is an instrument used to measure earthquakes by detecting and recording ground motions. It consists of a sensor that responds to ground movements, which are then converted into electrical signals that can be recorded and analyzed.


What is the difference between a seismograph and a seismometer?

A seismograph is a device that records vibrations and seismic waves caused by earthquakes, while a seismometer is a sensor that detects ground motion. Essentially, a seismometer is a component of a seismograph, which includes additional recording instruments.

Related Questions

What is used to measure moonquakes?

A seismometer would measure earthquakes, but there is no such activity on the moon to measure.


What is the instrument that can measure the intensity of earthquakes?

A seismogragh and/or seismometer.


Can you put the word seismometer in a sentence?

A Geologist uses a seismometer to measure earth tremors and movements, and to help predict a possible earthquake.


What caused the development of seismometer?

A desire to record the occurrence and measure of earthquakes.


What name is given to the instrument used to measure earthquakes?

A seismometer.


Which instrument does not belong and why. Anemometer barometer thermometer seismometer?

The seismometer is the 'odd one out'. The other instruments measure factors to do with weather (wind speed, air pressure & temperature) - the seismometer measures movements in the Earth's crust.


How do you detect the magnitude of an earthquake?

You use a seismometer. Then, measure the magnitude according to the Richter scale.


What do you call an instrument used to detect and record earthquakes?

Seismometer (or seismograph) and it measure seismic waves


What seismometer measure?

A seismometre detects seismic impulses in other words it basically measures earthquakes


This instrument is used to measure the intensity of an earthquake.?

A seismometer is used to measure the intensity of an earthquake by detecting and recording the ground motion caused by seismic waves. It provides data on the amplitude and frequency of the seismic waves, which helps in determining the earthquake's magnitude and duration.


What is the name of the instrument used to measure seismic activity?

A seismometer (replacing the outdated term seismograph), but other instruments may also respond to an earthquake. The simplest example of a seismograph is a pendulum.


What is bigger a manometer or seismometer?

A seismometer is typically larger than a manometer. Seismometers are designed to detect and measure seismic waves, which requires more complex components and sensors. Manometers, on the other hand, are used to measure pressure and are generally smaller and simpler in design.