Seismic waves (HT ONLY)

Earthquakes will produce seismic waves.
- P-waves are longitudinal seismic waves. They will travel through solids and liquids at different speeds.
- S-waves are transverse seismic waves. They can only travel through solids.
The analysis of seismic waves and their reflections and transmissions inside the Earth has provided evidence to scientists about the Earth’s structure and the properties of its three layers:
- Mantle: solid outer layer of the Earth. All seismic waves can travel through it.
- Outer core: liquid layer, meaning S-waves cannot travel through it.
- Inner core: solid layer, meaning the P-waves that reach it will change speed.

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