Final answer:
Seismic waves are energy waves caused by the sudden fracture of rock within the Earth or explosions that can cause significant destruction, much like the work of numerous wrecking balls. Their intensity can be measured on the Richter scale, which correlates with their amplitude and energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The waves of energy caused by the sudden breaking of rock within the Earth or an explosion are known as seismic waves. These waves are a type of mechanical wave that carries energy through the Earth's solids and liquids due to disturbances such as the breaking of rock or pressure changes under the surface. Earthquakes, which generate seismic waves, can shake whole cities to the ground, akin to the work of thousands of wrecking balls. The destructive effect of an earthquake demonstrates the energy carried by these waves, with large-amplitude earthquakes typically causing greater damage and having higher seismic energy content. The intensity of earthquakes can be measured on scales such as the Richter scale, which relates to both the amplitude and energy of the seismic waves.