What is the difference between P waves and S waves?

Understand the Problem

The question asks for the differences between P waves and S waves, which are types of seismic waves generated during earthquakes. P waves (primary waves) are compression waves that travel faster and can move through solids, liquids, and gases, while S waves (secondary waves) are shear waves that only travel through solids and are slower than P waves. The user is likely interested in understanding the properties and behavior of these seismic waves.

More Information

P waves (primary waves) can travel through solids, liquids, and gases and are faster, being the first to arrive at seismographs during an earthquake. S waves (secondary waves) can only travel through solids and are slower, arriving second at seismographs.

Tips

A common mistake is thinking that both P waves and S waves can travel through all types of media. Remember, S waves cannot travel through liquids or gases.

Sources

• S waves and P waves - Study.com - study.com
• Seismic Waves and Determining Earth's Structure - University of Hawaii - manoa.hawaii.edu
• Body waves inside the earth - USGS - earthquake.usgs.gov