The vibrations in the primary (P)and secondary (S)seismic waves caused by earthquakes are
A) along the direction of travel for both waves.
B) perpendicular to the direction of travel for P waves and along the direction of travel for S waves.
C) at right angles to the direction of travel for both waves.
D) perpendicular to the direction of travel for S waves and along the direction of travel for P waves.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

P waves (primary waves) move through the Earth's layers by compressing and expanding the material in the same direction they are traveling, hence along the direction of travel. S waves (secondary waves), on the other hand, move perpendicular to their direction of travel by shearing or shaking the material side to side.

The Vibrations in the Primary (P)and Secondary (S)seismic Waves Caused