Question

Which statement best classifies P-waves and S-waves?


Both waves are mechanical waves.


Both waves are electromagnetic waves.


S-waves are mechanical waves, while P-waves are electromagnetic waves.


P-waves are mechanical waves, while S-waves are electromagnetic waves.

Answer 1

Both waves are mechanical waves.

P-waves are compressional (longitudinal) mechanical waves; S-waves are shear (transverse) mechanical waves. Both require a material medium (and S-waves cannot travel through liquids).