26.4. Comparison between Shear and Rayleigh Waves

Try these first

1. 1.

   What type of wave is a Shear Wave?

   Hint

   Think about the classification of seismic waves.

2. 2.

   Describe the particle motion in Rayleigh Waves.

   Hint

   Consider how particles move in a circle.

3. 3.

   What type of seismic wave is an S-wave?

   • Surface wave
   • Body wave
   • Love wave

   Hint

   Consider the type of medium these waves travel through.

4. 4.

   Rayleigh Waves primarily affect which part of the Earth?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Reflect on their propagation characteristics.

5. 5.

   If an earthquake strikes a region with thick soft soils, describe the expected behavior of both S-waves and Rayleigh waves and their impacts on structures.

   Hint

   Reflect on the wave types and soil characteristics.

6. 6.

   Given a scenario where a high-rise building is subjected to both S-wave and Rayleigh wave impacts during an earthquake, analyze which wave might cause more structural concern and why.

   Hint

   Consider the characteristics of both wave types.