Seismic Waves 2

Question 1

What are the main layers of the Earth?

Answer 1

• Crust
• Mantle
• Outer Core
• Inner Core

The layers vary in their physical states, with the crust being solid, the mantle almost solid, the outer core being liquid, and the inner core being solid.

Question 2

What type of waves can be used to determine the inner structure of the Earth?

Answer 2

P waves and S waves

These waves are detected after seismic events like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

Question 3

What is the physical state of the Outer Core?

Answer 3

Liquid

The Outer Core is distinct from the Inner Core, which is solid.

Question 4

What happens to P waves at the boundaries between different layers in the Earth?

Answer 4

They are refracted

Refraction occurs due to changes in material properties at the boundaries.

Question 5

True or False: S waves can travel through both the crust and the mantle.

Answer 5

False

S waves only travel through the crust and the mantle, but cannot travel through the liquid outer core.

Question 6

Fill in the blank: S waves only travel through the _______ and the _______.

Answer 6

crust, mantle

This limits their reach compared to P waves.

Question 7

Which type of wave reaches more distant locations, P waves or S waves?

Answer 7

P waves

P waves can travel through all layers of the Earth, while S waves cannot travel through the liquid outer core.

Question 8

What is the physical state of the Inner Core?

Answer 8

Solid

The Inner Core is solid despite the extreme temperatures present at that depth.

Question 9

What is the physical state of the Mantle?

Answer 9

Almost solid

The Mantle behaves differently under stress, allowing for slow convection currents.