How do earthquakes help geologists understand Earth’s interior?

Question

During an earthquake, geologists use a machine called a
to study seismic waves.

P waves can pass through both solid and molten rock, but S waves can pass only through
rock.

Answer 1

Earthquakes help geologists understand Earth’s interior by providing valuable information through the study of seismic waves generated during these events. When an earthquake occurs, it produces different types of seismic waves that travel through the Earth. By analyzing these waves, geologists can infer the composition, state, and behavior of the materials inside the Earth.

During an earthquake, geologists use a machine called a seismometer (or seismograph) to study seismic waves.

P waves (primary waves) can pass through both solid and molten rock, but S waves (secondary waves) can pass only through solid rock. This distinction helps scientists determine the state of materials within the Earth, leading to insights about the Earth's internal structure, such as the solid inner core and the liquid outer core.