P-waves vs S-waves:
- P-waves = Primary (arrive first) = Push/pull (longitudinal) = Pass through everything (solids and liquids)
- S-waves = Secondary (arrive second) = Shake sideways (transverse) = Stopped by liquid
Earth's layers (outside to inside): "Can My Little Pony Come In?"
Crust — Mantle — (Liquid) outer core — (solid) inner core
This memory aid covers Memory Aid 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 10 of 14 in this topic. Use it for quick recall, then test yourself straight afterwards so the memory aid becomes usable in an answer.
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.
Quick recall flashcards
What are S-waves?
Secondary (transverse) seismic waves - slower
What are P-waves?
Primary (longitudinal) seismic waves - fastest