Explanation:

Richter Scale:
The Richter scale is a logarithmic scale that measures the magnitude of an earthquake. It was developed in 1935 by Charles F. Richter, a seismologist, and is commonly used to assess the size and impact of earthquakes.

Severe Damage:
Severe damage refers to the level of destruction caused by an earthquake. It includes extensive damage to buildings, infrastructure, and the environment, as well as the potential for loss of life and injuries.

Reading:
The reading mentioned in the question refers to the magnitude of an earthquake on the Richter scale. The magnitude is a measure of the total energy released by an earthquake.

Options:
a) 3
b) 5
c) 1
d) 2
e) None of these

Correct answer:
The correct answer is option 'A' (3). An earthquake with a magnitude of 3 on the Richter scale can cause severe damage.

Explanation:
An earthquake with a magnitude of 3 on the Richter scale is considered a moderate earthquake. It can cause noticeable shaking of indoor items, rattling noises, and vibrations similar to the passing of a truck.

While a magnitude 3 earthquake may not be as powerful as higher magnitudes, it can still cause significant damage, especially if the epicenter is located in a densely populated area or if the structures in the affected region are not built to withstand seismic activity.

The severity of the damage caused by an earthquake depends on various factors such as the depth of the earthquake, distance from the epicenter, population density, building construction quality, and local geological conditions.

It is important to note that each increment on the Richter scale represents a tenfold increase in the amplitude of seismic waves and approximately 31.6 times more energy release. Therefore, as the magnitude increases, the potential for damage and destruction also increases significantly.

In summary, an earthquake with a magnitude of 3 on the Richter scale can cause severe damage, particularly in vulnerable areas. It is important to be prepared and take necessary precautions to minimize the impact and protect lives and property during and after an earthquake.