The slight difference in time of observation between the arrival of P and S waves at a seismographic station allows scientists to determine the distance to the focus of an earthquake.

Question

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This is known as the "seismic gap method" and is used to determine the distance of the epicenter of an earthquake from a seismographic station. By measuring the time difference between the arrival of P and S waves at the station, scientists can calculate the distance traveled by each wave and use that information to triangulate the location of the earthquake's epicenter.

The Slight Difference in Time of Observation Between the Arrival