Types of Seismic Waves and Their Properties

Front

What is a P wave?

Back

The first wave that arrives at a location during an earthquake.

Front

What is a seismic wave?

Back

Waves of energy from the focus that travel in all directions through the earth.

Front

Which type of wave arrives second during an earthquake to any location?

Back

S-wave

Front

How does energy from the focus move out from the epicenter during an earthquake?

Back

All Directions

Front

Which seismic wave is the most dangerous?

Back

Surface wave

Front

What are the two main types of seismic waves?

Back

Body waves (P-waves and S-waves) and Surface 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 focus of an earthquake?

Back

The point within the earth where an earthquake originates.

Front

What is the epicenter of an earthquake?

Back

The point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus.

Front

What are surface waves?

Back

Seismic waves that travel along the Earth's surface and are typically the most destructive.