The Richter scale measures the magnitude of earthquakes, quantifying the seismic energy released during an event. Developed in 1935 by Charles F. Richter, this logarithmic scale ranges from 0 to 10, with each whole number increase corresponding to a tenfold increase in amplitude of the seismic waves. For example, a magnitude 5 earthquake has vibrations that are ten times greater than those of a magnitude 4. The scale allows scientists and seismologists to communicate the intensity and potential impact of earthquakes effectively, helping communities prepare for and respond to these natural phenomena.