Earthquakes and Seismic Waves

Front

What is a P-Wave?

Back

A P-Wave, or primary wave, is a type of seismic wave that compresses and expands the material it travels through. It is the fastest seismic wave and can move through solids and liquids.

Front

What is an S-Wave?

Back

An S-Wave, or secondary wave, is a type of seismic wave that moves the ground up and down or side to side. It is slower than a P-Wave and can only travel through solids.

Front

What are surface waves?

Back

Surface waves are seismic waves that travel along the Earth's surface. They typically cause the most damage during an earthquake.

Front

Where do most earthquakes occur?

Back

Most earthquakes occur along plate boundaries, where tectonic plates interact.

Front

What is the epicenter of an earthquake?

Back

The epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the location where an earthquake originates.

Front

Can P-Waves travel through liquids?

Back

Yes, P-Waves can travel through both solids and liquids.

Front

Can S-Waves travel through liquids?

Back

No, S-Waves cannot travel through liquids; they only move through solids.

Front

What does the amplitude of an earthquake indicate?

Back

The amplitude of an earthquake indicates the amount of energy released; larger amplitudes mean more energy.

Front

What is the relationship between earthquake magnitude and damage?

Back

Generally, the higher the magnitude of an earthquake, the more damage it can cause.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

A tectonic plate is a large slab of solid rock that makes up the Earth's lithosphere and moves over the semi-fluid asthenosphere.