Correct option is D
The correct answer is: (d), P waves
P waves, also known as primary or compressional waves, are a type of seismic wave that are generated by earthquakes and travel through the Earth's interior. They are the fastest seismic waves and are capable of traveling through solids, liquids, and gases.
P waves cause particles in the material they pass through to move in the same direction as the wave's propagation, which is typically in the direction of the earthquake's epicenter.
P waves are the first seismic waves to be detected by seismographs following an earthquake, arriving before other types of waves such as S (secondary) waves and surface waves.
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S waves, also known as secondary or shear waves, are another type of seismic wave generated by earthquakes. They travel through the Earth's interior, but unlike P waves, they cannot pass through liquids. S waves are slower than P waves but faster than surface waves.
S waves propagate by causing particles in the material they travel through to move perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. This movement is similar to the motion of a rope being shaken side to side. S waves can only travel through solids and cannot propagate through liquids or gases. This is because they rely on shear stress to move particles, which requires a solid medium.
L waves, also known as surface waves or long waves, are a type of seismic wave that travel along the Earth's surface. They are generated by the interaction of P waves and S waves with the Earth's surface and subsurface layers. L waves travel along the Earth's surface rather than through its interior. They propagate in a rolling or undulating motion, similar to ocean waves. L waves move both horizontally and vertically, causing the ground to sway from side to side and up and down. This complex motion contributes to the destructive effects of L waves on buildings, infrastructure, and the environment.
L waves have lower frequencies compared to P waves and S waves, which contribute to their long wavelengths and ability to travel long distances across the Earth's surface.