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 (P-waves and S-waves) and surface waves (Love waves and Rayleigh waves).

Front

What is a Primary (P) Wave?

Back

A Primary (P) Wave is a type of seismic wave that compresses and expands the material it travels through, and it is the fastest seismic wave.

Front

What is a Secondary (S) Wave?

Back

A Secondary (S) Wave is a type of seismic wave that moves the ground up and down or side to side and cannot travel through liquids.

Front

What are Love Waves?

Back

Love Waves are surface seismic waves that cause horizontal shifting of the Earth during an earthquake.

Front

What are Rayleigh Waves?

Back

Rayleigh Waves are surface seismic waves that cause both vertical and horizontal ground movement, similar to ocean waves.

Front

How do P-waves travel through different materials?

Back

P-waves can travel through solids, liquids, and gases, making them the only type of seismic wave that can move through all states of matter.

Front

Why can't S-waves travel through liquids?

Back

S-waves cannot travel through liquids because they require a material that can support shear stress, which liquids cannot.

Front

Which seismic wave arrives first during an earthquake?

Back

Primary (P) waves arrive first during an earthquake.

Front

Which seismic wave is typically more destructive?

Back

Secondary (S) waves are typically more destructive than Primary (P) waves.