Seismic waves

Definition

Seismic waves are energy waves generated by the sudden breaking of rock within the Earth or an explosion. They travel through and around the Earth, providing critical information about its internal structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are two main types of seismic waves: body waves (P-waves and S-waves) and surface waves.
2. P-waves (Primary waves) are compressional waves that can travel through solids, liquids, and gases.
3. S-waves (Secondary waves) are shear waves that only move through solids and are slower than P-waves.
4. Surface waves travel along the Earth's surface and tend to cause more damage during earthquakes.
5. Seismographs are instruments used to detect and record seismic waves, revealing details about the Earth's interior layers.

Review Questions

• What are the differences between P-waves and S-waves?
• Why can't S-waves travel through liquids?
• How do seismologists use seismic waves to learn about Earth's internal structure?

Related terms

Seismograph: An instrument that records the intensity, duration, and nature of seismic waves.

Epicenter: The point on the Earth's surface directly above where an earthquake originates.

Richter Scale: A logarithmic scale used to measure the magnitude of an earthquake based on seismic wave data.