how are P waves and S waves different from each other?

A. p waves move under earths surface, and s waves move along earths surface
B. p waves push and pull in the same direction as the wave, and s waves move up ans down
C. P waves travel slowly and S waves travel quickly
D. P waves causes damage, S waves do not cause damage

1 answer

The correct answer is B. P waves push and pull in the same direction as the wave, and S waves move up and down.

Here's a breakdown of the differences between P waves (primary waves) and S waves (secondary waves):

  • P waves are compressional waves that move by pushing and pulling the ground in the same direction as the wave travels. They can travel through solids, liquids, and gases.
  • S waves are shear waves that move the ground perpendicular to the direction of wave travel, typically causing the ground to move up and down or side to side. S waves can only travel through solids.

The other options are not accurate representations of the differences between P waves and S waves.