7
QuizMultiple Choice

Earthquakes — Quiz

Question 7 • Earth and Space Science

Which seismic wave causes the ground to compress and expand in the same direction the wave is moving?

Answer
A
P-wave
B
Rayleigh wave
C
Love wave
D
S-wave

Explanation

A P-wave is a longitudinal (compressional) seismic wave: particles move back and forth parallel to the direction the wave travels. This motion makes the ground compress and expand along the wave’s path. Rayleigh and Love waves travel along Earth’s surface, while S-waves move particles perpendicular to the direction of travel.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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