Lesson 8 - Seismic Waves

Question 1

Name the 4 types of seismic wave

Answer 1

P
S
Rayleigh
Love

Question 2

How do Rayleigh + Love waves differ from P + S waves?

Answer 2

They are surface waves

Question 3

Describe the qualities of P waves

Answer 3

Fastest travelling wave
Travel through solids + liquids
Vibrate in direction of which they’re travelling
Compressional

Question 4

Describe the qualities of S waves

Answer 4

Half the speed of P waves
Move at 90-degree angle to the direction of travel
Shear rock
Cause greater deal of damage than P waves
Only travel through solids

Question 5

Describe the qualities of Rayleigh waves

Answer 5

Travel through liquids + solids
Rolling-like motion
Move similarly to ocean waves
Only travel on surface

Question 6

Describe the qualities of Love waves

Answer 6

Only travel through solids
Only travel on surface
Great deal of damage due to shearing effect
Move from side to side

Question 7

Which type of wave can travel through the Earth’s core?

Answer 7

P waves only (Solids + Liquids)
Refracted as they do so