27.3. Interpretation of Seismograms

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the first seismic wave to arrive at a seismic station?

   Hint

   Think of the 'P' in primary.

2. 2.

   What does PGA stand for?

   Hint

   What do you measure during an earthquake's ground shaking?

3. 3.

   What wave arrives first during an earthquake?

   • P-wave
   • S-wave
   • Surface wave

   Hint

   Remember: P stands for Primary.

4. 4.

   True or False: S-waves arrive before P-waves.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the order in which waves travel.

5. 5.

   Given a seismogram with distinct P, S, and surface waves, draw and label the waveforms, and note the amplitude differences. Discuss how these would affect building designs in a seismically active area.

   Hint

   Focus on the amplitude's effect on potential damage.

6. 6.

   Using a hypothetical seismogram, identify the P-wave, S-wave, and surface wave, and calculate the time difference between their arrivals. Discuss how this information might be used in real-time earthquake warnings.

   Hint

   Consider the speed of waves and the implications for safety.