19.3.1.a. Primary (P) Waves

Try these first

1. 1.

   What type of wave are P-waves?

   Hint

   Consider how P-waves affect the media they pass through.

2. 2.

   Can P-waves travel through liquids?

   Hint

   Think about what kind of materials there are in the Earth's interior.

3. 3.

   What is the main characteristic of P-waves?

   • Fastest seismic waves
   • Only travel through solids
   • Slowest seismic waves

   Hint

   Think about their speed compared to other seismic waves.

4. 4.

   P-waves can travel through which of the following?

   • Only solids
   • Solids and liquids
   • Solids
   • liquids
   • and gases

   Hint

   Recall the mediums that P-waves can traverse.

5. 5.

   Assess how the different propagation speeds of P-waves can influence the design considerations for earthquake-resistant buildings.

   Hint

   Think about how different parts of a building might react to waves of different speeds.

6. 6.

   Analyze how the ability of P-waves to travel through various mediums might inform geologists about the Earth's interior.

   Hint

   Consider how changes in material density affect wave speed and type of wave detected.