Seismology: Wave Types and Motions

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What is the primary factor that affects seismic wave velocities?

Pore fluid

Lithification

Cementation

Porosity (correct)

What happens to seismic wave propagation when forced through a fluid?

It stops completely

It remains unchanged

It becomes more efficient

It becomes less efficient (correct)

What is the effect of pore saturation on P-wave and S-wave velocities?

They increase (correct)

They become zero

They decrease

They remain unchanged

What is the process by which unconsolidated sediments become consolidated through compaction and cementation?

Lithification Signup and view all the answers

Why is P-wave velocity less impacted by porosity when the pore space is saturated?

Because P-wave velocity is larger in water and oil Signup and view all the answers

What type of waves are unable to propagate through fluids?

S-waves Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of particle motion in Love waves?

Parallel to the Earth's surface and perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation Signup and view all the answers

What determines the bulk modulus, shear modulus, and density of a rock?

Mineralogy and structure Signup and view all the answers

Which type of rocks have relatively large seismic velocities?

Igneous, metamorphic, carbonate, and anhydrite rocks Signup and view all the answers

What type of motion do particles exhibit in prograde seismic waves?

Same direction as the propagating wave Signup and view all the answers

How are P-wave and S-wave velocities measured for a given rock?

By using piezometric transducers on a core sample Signup and view all the answers

Why do soils and sedimentary rocks have lower seismic velocities?

Due to their tendency to deform under compressional and shear stresses Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor that affects the speed of seismic wave propagation through different mediums?

Both elastic properties and density of the medium Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the internal reaction of a body to an external force applied over its cross-sectional area?

Stress Signup and view all the answers

What type of stress is caused by a compressive force?

Compressive stress Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the change in volume and/or shape of a material when a mechanical force is applied?

Strain Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the energy transfer that occurs when elastic deformations propagate away from the source?

Energy transfer Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the propagation of elastic energy through the earth in different ways and at different speeds?

Seismic wave Signup and view all the answers