Refining is inevitable in science when you have made measurements of a phenomenon for a long period of time.
Interpretation
Refining measurements in science is a natural process over time as we gather more data.
The quote by Charles Francis Richter emphasizes the idea that in the scientific field, as we conduct long-term observations and gather data about a particular phenomenon, it becomes necessary to refine our measurements and understandings. This is because science is both a methodical and evolving discipline, where ongoing research leads to better accuracy and comprehension, highlighting the dynamic nature of scientific inquiry.
In practice
During a scientific conference, one could use this quote to illustrate the importance of continuous improvement in research methods.
Magnitude may be compared to the power output in kilowatts of a [radio] broadcasting station; local intensity, on the Mercalli or similar scale, is then comparable to the signal strength noted on a receiver at a given locality. Intensity, like signal strength, will generally fall off with distance from the source; it will also depend on local conditions at the point of observation, and to some extent on the conditions along the path from source to that point.
Only fools, liars, and charlatans predict earthquakes
I have a sense of humor; but over the years that sense has developed one blind spot. I can no longer laugh at ignorance or stupidity. Those are our chief enemies, and it is dangerous to make fun of them.
The theory of our modern technic shows that nothing is as practical as theory.
Why do more than 40 percent of Americans think that the Universe began after the domestication of the dog?
A black hole really is an object with very rich structure, just like Earth has a rich structure of mountains, valleys, oceans, and so forth. Its warped space whirls around the central singularity like air in a tornado.
It's not going to be just humans colonizing space, it's going to be life moving out from the Earth, moving it into its kingdom. And the kingdom of life, of course, is going to be the universe.
I call on all scientists in all countries to cease and desist from work creating, developing, improving and manufacturing further nuclear weapons - and, for that matter, other weapons of potential mass destruction such as chemical and biological weapons.
If there is anything more frightening than the threat of global nuclear war, it is the certainty that humans not only stand on the verge of producing new life forms but may soon be able to tinker with them as if they were vintage convertibles or bonsai trees.
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