Earthquake Epicenter Determination Quiz

What are the primary and secondary waves in an earthquake called?

• L waves and M waves

• X waves and Y waves

• P waves and S waves

• A waves and B waves

Which type of wave travels the fastest?

• S waves

• Love waves

• Surface waves

• P waves

How do scientists measure the time difference between the arrival of P and S waves?

• Using a stopwatch

• Using a thermometer

• Using a barometer

• Using a ruler and a scale

If the distance between the P and S waves is 8 centimeters, how many minutes does it represent?

• 8 minutes

• 6 minutes

• 5 minutes

• 4 minutes

What is the time difference between the P and S waves for Boulder, Colorado?

• 3.4 minutes

• 2.5 minutes

• 4.75 minutes

• 5.5 minutes

How far is the epicenter from Balboa Heights, Panama?

• 1600 kilometers

• 2200 kilometers

• 3200 kilometers

• 4000 kilometers

What tool is used to plot the distances on a map to find the epicenter?

• Compass

• Calculator

• Protractor

• Ruler

Where is the epicenter of the earthquake located?

• At the point where the P waves are strongest

• At the point where the S waves are weakest

• At the intersection of the arcs from different locations

• At the center of the map

Which type of wave is the first to arrive after an earthquake occurs?

• P- Wave
• Rayleigh Wave
• S- Wave
• Shear Wave

Which of the following statements BEST describes secondary waves (S-waves)?

• circular motions like an ocean wave

• snake-like motions parallel to the Earth's surface

• contractions and expansions that are in the direction of wave propagation

• shearing motions that are at right angles to the direction of wave propagation