Interpreting a Seismogram  
     
 

A recording from a seismograph is called a seismogram, and it looks similar to the example on the right.

 

As ground motion occurs it is recorded electronically, and motion is represented by the ups and downs on the seismogram.

 

 


Some examples:

 
 

A small, local earthquake



A moderate, regional earthquake

 
 

A large, global earthquake



Equipment malfunction