Seismic Waves Review

Front

What are seismic waves?

Back

Seismic waves are waves of energy that travel through the Earth, typically as a result of geological activity such as earthquakes.

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 is a P wave?

Back

A P wave, or primary wave, is a type of seismic wave that is compressional or longitudinal, moving back and forth in the direction of travel.

Front

What is an S wave?

Back

An S wave, or secondary wave, is a type of seismic wave that moves side to side and is perpendicular to the direction of travel.

Front

How do P waves travel through the Earth?

Back

P waves travel by compressing and expanding the material they move through, allowing them to travel through solids, liquids, and gases.

Front

How do S waves travel through the Earth?

Back

S waves travel by moving the ground side to side, and they can only travel through solids.

Front

What are surface waves?

Back

Surface waves are seismic waves that travel along the Earth's surface, causing both vertical and horizontal ground movement.

Front

What is the difference between P waves and S waves?

Back

P waves are longitudinal and can travel through all states of matter, while S waves are transverse and can only travel through solids.

Front

What is the speed comparison between P waves and S waves?

Back

P waves travel faster than S waves, which is why they are detected first by seismographs.

Front

What is the role of seismic waves in understanding earthquakes?

Back

Seismic waves help scientists locate the epicenter of an earthquake and understand its magnitude and impact.