Frequently Examined
This topic is examined in Edexcel 1PH0/1 (Paper 1). Edexcel seismic wave questions frequently use diagrams of Earth's interior and ask students to apply wave properties to explain shadow zones and Earth's structure — the "Suggest" command word is common here.
Seismic waves are a favourite exam topic because they require you to apply wave knowledge to a real-world context. Expect:
- Explain the S-wave shadow zone — use properties of transverse waves to explain why they can't pass through liquid
- Compare P and S waves — type, particle motion, media they travel through
- Interpret a diagram of Earth's interior showing wave paths and shadow zones
- Explain what seismic evidence tells us about Earth's layers (outer core = liquid, inner core = solid)
Classic 4-mark question: "Explain how seismic wave data provides evidence that the Earth's outer core is liquid." Full marks requires: S-waves are transverse → cannot pass through liquids → S-wave shadow zone observed → outer core must be liquid.
This exam focus covers Exam Focus within Seismic Waves for GCSE Physics. Revise Seismic Waves in Waves for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 12 of 14 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Practice questions for Seismic Waves
What type of wave is a P-wave (primary seismic wave)?
State two differences between P-waves and S-waves in terms of how the particles move and what materials they can travel through.