MasteryExams
Geography • Physical GeographyEasy

Which of the following seismic waves are known as compressional waves, where particle motion is parallel to the direction of wave propagation?

A. Primary (P) waves✓ Correct Answer
B. Secondary (S) waves
C. Love waves
D. Rayleigh waves

💡 Solution & Explanation

Primary or P-waves are longitudinal seismic waves where particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation, allowing them to travel through both solids and liquids. Secondary waves are transverse and pass only through solids, whereas Love and Rayleigh waves are surface waves restricted to the outer crust. P-waves are consistently the fastest moving seismic waves recorded by seismographs during an earthquake.

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