Seismic Waves

Front

What are seismic waves?

Back

Seismic waves are waves of energy that travel through the Earth, typically as a result of an earthquake or other geological activity.

Front

What are the two main types of seismic waves?

Back

The two main types of seismic waves are body waves and surface waves.

Front

What are body waves?

Back

Body waves are seismic waves that travel through the Earth's interior. They are further divided into Primary (P) waves and Secondary (S) waves.

Front

What are Primary (P) waves?

Back

Primary waves are the fastest type of seismic waves and can travel through solids, liquids, and gases.

Front

What are Secondary (S) waves?

Back

Secondary waves are slower than P waves and can only travel through solids.

Front

What are surface waves?

Back

Surface waves are seismic waves that travel along the Earth's surface and are typically the most destructive during an earthquake.

Front

Which seismic wave is the fastest?

Back

Primary (P) waves are the fastest seismic waves.

Front

Which seismic wave is the slowest?

Back

Surface waves are the slowest seismic waves.

Front

What is the focus of an earthquake?

Back

The focus is the point within the Earth where an earthquake originates, and seismic waves are released from this point.

Front

What is the epicenter of an earthquake?

Back

The epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus of an earthquake.