Body-Wave Magnitude
Body-Wave Magnitude: A method for determining earthquake size from the amplitude of body waves. The body-wave magnitude focuses on P-waves and S-waves, which travel faster through the Earth’s crust and mantle.
Body-Wave Magnitude: A method for determining earthquake size from the amplitude of body waves. The body-wave magnitude focuses on P-waves and S-waves, which travel faster through the Earth’s crust and mantle.

Porosity (n) “Porosity” (n), in the geological engineering field, is a percentage value that represents the bulk volume of a rock or soil, that is occupied by the void space within. Porosity (n) Formula Porosity (n) = [(Volume of Voids ÷ Total Volume) x 100%]

Hooke’s Law “Hooke’s Law” is a geological statement relating to the elastic deformation of rocks. Hooke’s Law states the strain of an earth-material is linearly proportional to the applied stress.

Subsidence “Subsidence” is a geologic condition, in which a localized mass movement occurs, resulting in the downward settlement of the earth over time. When subsidence occurs, the actual ground surface elevation is lower. This occurrence of the ground surface sinking is typically caused by groundwater table and aquifer reductions, by which the soils become more…

Thrust Fault Thrust Fault: In the field of geology, a thrust fault is a reverse fault in which the fault plane dipping angle is less than 45 degrees. Thrust faults are dip-slip faults, and can also be listric faults. For instance, the fault underlying the western embankment of the historical St. Francis Dam in Saugus,…

Retaining Wall Retaining Wall: A structure that provides the support needed to hold (in place) a mass of earth, preventing it from moving downhill. Retaining walls are relatively rigid structures comprising footings and a drainage system, in order to retain the soils between two different elevations. Updated May 25, 2020. Construction & Design A lot…

Methane Mitigation Soil Gas Pressure Sensor Methane Mitigation Soil Gas Pressure Sensor: A Methane Mitigation Soil Gas Pressure Sensor is a device that measures and communicates sub-slab soil gas pressure to a methane control panel system. High levels of methane soil gas then trigger the integrated methane alarm system to notify occupants of danger. Much…