Use this seismology calculation to reproduce a stated convention, screen observations, or compare scenarios whose units, coordinate conventions, catalog selection, and model assumptions are known.

Ms

Required number. Surface-wave magnitude.

mb

Required number. Body-wave magnitude.

The cited overview of Seismology supplies background for the terminology and domain context used by this tool.^[1]

First-order Ms/mb discrimination screen for event source type. Inputs are interpreted exactly in the displayed units and the calculation returns the following fields without presentation rounding.

Δ

Returned number. Ms − mb discriminant.

Hint

Returned string. Source-type hint from the discriminant.

• Earth structure, source geometry, path effects, site response, instrument response, catalog completeness, uncertainty, and the fitted range can dominate the accuracy of simplified seismic calculations.
• Use finite inputs in the displayed units, preserve source measurements and assumptions, and independently verify consequential decisions.

For analysis or hazard decisions, retain uncertainty and provenance and compare the result with waveform processing, calibrated regional models, and guidance from qualified seismologists or the responsible agency.

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