Earthquake waves are classified as P waves and S waves. Which of the following statements is true about these waves?
A) The P wave is transverse as is the S wave.
B) The P wave is longitudinal as is the S wave.
C) The P wave is transverse and the S wave is longitudinal.
D) The P wave is longitudinal and the S wave is transverse.
E) Both the P and S waves are mixtures of longitudinal and transverse waves.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

P waves are longitudinal, meaning that they propagate by compressing and expanding the material they travel through. S waves are transverse, meaning that they propagate by shearing the material they travel through.

Earthquake Waves Are Classified as P Waves and S Waves