What is a seismic wave?

Seismic waves are waves that travel through the Earth.


They are a result of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and large explosions. 

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Which device is used to detect seismic waves?

Seismometer.

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Why do scientists study seismic waves?

  1. It helps us understand the internal structure of the earth. 


  1. It allows us to detect earthquakes early.

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What type of scientist studies seismic waves?

Seismologist.

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What are the two types of seismic wave?

P-waves


S-waves

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Which physical states (solid, liquid, gas) can P-waves travel through?

P-waves can travel through solids, liquids, and gases.

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Are P-waves transverse or longitudinal waves?

P-waves are longitudinal waves.

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Which physical states (solid, liquid, gas) can S-waves travel through?

S-waves can only travel through solids.

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Are S-waves transverse or longitudinal waves?

S-waves are transverse.

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Does the diagram below show the path of P-waves or S-waves?

P-waves, as only P-waves can pass through the liquid outer core.

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Do P-waves or S-waves travel faster?

P-waves travel faster. 

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Which physical state (solid / liquid / gas) is the mantle?

The mantle is solid.

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Which physical state (solid / liquid / gas) is the outer core?

The outer core is liquid.

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Does the diagram below show the path of P-waves or S-waves?

S-waves, as S-waves cannot pass through the liquid outer core.

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