Chapter 26, Problem 1TE

To determine

The comparison between the relative speeds of primary and secondary seismic waves and the type of material that can each travel through.

Answer to Problem 1TE

Primary seismic waves, also called pressure waves are longitudinal pressure waves like the movement of Secondary seismic waves, which are slower than Primary waves. Primary waves travel through solids, liquids and gases, while the secondary waves can only travel through solids.

Explanation of Solution

Primary seismic waves are the kind of waves which is travel very fast as compared to other waves. They can move within all three states (solid, liquid and gas) of matter. As they go through a material, the particles of the material are marginally pushed together and pulled separated.

Secondary seismic waves travel within Earth's inside at about a large portion of the speed of essential waves. Optional waves are likewise called S waves. Optional waves can go through stone, yet not at all like essential waves, they can't go through fluids or gases.

Conclusion:

Therefore, primary seismic waves, also called pressure waves are longitudinal pressure waves like the movement of Secondary seismic waves, which are slower than Primary waves. Primary waves travel through solids, liquids and gases, while the secondary waves can only travel through solids.