The Richter scale is used to measure just how strong an earthquake's intensity is. While it has been largely replaced by other, similar magnitude scales, reports of earthquakes often still refer to a Richter scale magnitude.
Invented by Charles F. Richter in 1935, the Richter scale was once the primary scale used to measure the size of an earthquake's waves, from tiny tremors that barely tickle your toes to massive quakes that can rock your whole city. Each number on the scale represents a tenfold increase in magnitude, so even a small increase indicates a much more powerful earthquake. The device was crucial for scientists to assess earthquake impacts and helped in planning safer buildings and disaster preparedness.