Front

What is a seismic wave?

Back

A seismic wave is an elastic wave generated by an earthquake or by a wave of other seismic sources, which travels through the Earth.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

NGSS.MS-PS4-2

Front

What are the two main types of seismic waves?

Back

The two main types of seismic waves are body waves (P-waves and S-waves) and surface waves.

Front

What does the letter 'b' represent in a seismic wave diagram?

Back

Wavelength.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-1

Front

What is the definition of amplitude in the context of seismic waves?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, measured from the position of equilibrium.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-1

Front

Which seismic wave has the greatest amplitude?

Back

The wave labeled 'C' in the diagram.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-1

Front

What is a seismograph?

Back

A seismograph is an instrument that detects, records, and measures the vibrations produced by an earthquake.

Front

What does the letter 'd' represent in a seismic wave diagram?

Back

Crest.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-1

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in seismic waves?

Back

Frequency and wavelength are inversely related; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases.

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS4-1

Front

What is the difference between P-waves and S-waves?

Back

P-waves (primary waves) are compressional waves that travel faster and can move through solids and liquids, while S-waves (secondary waves) are shear waves that only travel through solids.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-1

Front

What is the significance of the crest in a seismic wave?

Back

The crest is the highest point of a wave, representing the maximum displacement from the rest position.