Seismic Waves
Seismic Waves
Seismic Waves
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P <strong>Waves</strong><br />
P waves are the faster of the two waves; they can travel through solid rock and liquid, as well as air.<br />
As a P wave travels through a medium (material), it causes particles to move in the same direction as<br />
the wave energy is traveling. As the waves pass through the medium, they cause compressions<br />
(shortening) and dilations (expansions). Slinkies may be used to model this type of wave.<br />
P Wave<br />
Compressions<br />
Dilations<br />
Undisturbed medium<br />
Direction of wave propagation<br />
P Wave in a Slinky®<br />
Direction of<br />
particle motion<br />
Direction of<br />
wave propagation<br />
Compression<br />
Dilation<br />
Compression<br />
ATEP ©2006-2008 UAF Geophysical Institute B-66 <strong>Seismic</strong> <strong>Waves</strong>
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