P-Wave and S-Wave Travel Time

Front

What are P-waves?

Back

P-waves, or primary waves, are the fastest seismic waves that travel through the Earth. They are compressional waves that can move through solids, liquids, and gases.

Front

What are S-waves?

Back

S-waves, or secondary waves, are seismic waves that follow P-waves. They are shear waves that can only travel through solids and are slower than P-waves.

Front

What is the difference in travel time between P-waves and S-waves?

Back

S-waves travel slower than P-waves, typically taking about 1.7 times longer to reach a seismic station after an earthquake.

Front

How do you calculate the distance to the epicenter using P-wave and S-wave travel times?

Back

The distance to the epicenter can be calculated using the formula: Distance = (P-wave travel time - S-wave travel time) x average speed of waves.

Front

What is the average speed of P-waves in the Earth?

Back

The average speed of P-waves in the Earth is approximately 6 to 8 kilometers per second.

Front

What is the average speed of S-waves in the Earth?

Back

The average speed of S-waves in the Earth is approximately 3.5 to 4.5 kilometers per second.

Front

If a seismic station records a P-wave arrival time of 10:05 a.m. and the P-wave traveled 5600 km, how can you find the time of the earthquake?

Back

To find the time of the earthquake, subtract the P-wave travel time from the arrival time.

Front

What is the significance of the difference in arrival times of P-waves and S-waves?

Back

The difference in arrival times helps seismologists determine the distance to the earthquake epicenter.

Front

How long does it take for P-waves to travel 5000 km?

Back

It takes approximately 12 minutes and 40 seconds for P-waves to travel 5000 km.

Front

How long does it take for S-waves to travel 5000 km?

Back

It takes approximately 20 minutes for S-waves to travel 5000 km.