Question

There are two types of seismic waves: p-waves and s-waves. Which of the following describes both waves? (1 point)
Responses

Both waves cause earthquakes.
Both waves cause earthquakes. - no response given

Both waves move the ground in the direction they travel.
Both waves move the ground in the direction they travel. - incorrect

Both waves occur in the ocean.
Both waves occur in the ocean. - no response given

Both waves move the ground perpendicular to the direction they travel.

Answer 1

The best description that applies to both p-waves and s-waves is that:

**Both waves cause earthquakes.**

P-waves (primary waves) are compressional waves that travel through solids, liquids, and gases, while S-waves (secondary waves) are shear waves that only travel through solids. Both types of seismic waves are generated by earthquakes.

The other statements are incorrect for the following reasons:

- **Both waves move the ground in the direction they travel.** (Only p-waves compress and move the ground in the direction of travel; s-waves move the ground perpendicular).
- **Both waves occur in the ocean.** (This is not accurate as s-waves cannot travel through liquid).
- **Both waves move the ground perpendicular to the direction they travel.** (This is only true for s-waves; p-waves move the ground parallel to the direction of travel).

So, the correct and relevant description is that both waves cause earthquakes.