LAB FLASHCARD What can you tell from studying seismic waves?

Front

What are the two main metals that make up the outer and inner core?

Back

Iron & Nickel

Front

What happens to S-waves when they meet the outer core?

Back

They stop.

Front

Can people on the South pole measure S waves from an earthquake at the North pole?

Back

No.

Front

How do seismologists gather information about the Earth's interior?

Back

By studying seismic waves generated by earthquakes.

Front

Why do we know there are two layers to the Earth’s core?

Back

S Waves stop at the outer core, P Waves bend as they reach the inner core, and P Waves bend as they enter the outer core.

Front

What are seismic waves?

Back

Waves of energy that travel through the Earth, generated by earthquakes or other geological processes.

Front

What are the two main types of seismic waves?

Back

P-waves (primary waves) and S-waves (secondary waves).

Front

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

Back

P-waves are compressional waves that can travel through solids and liquids, while S-waves are shear waves that can only travel through solids.

Front

What is the outer core primarily composed of?

Back

Liquid iron and nickel.

Front

What is the inner core primarily composed of?

Back

Solid iron and nickel.