This topic summary covers Topic Summary: Seismic Waves within Seismic Waves for GCSE Physics. Revise Seismic Waves in Waves for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 14 of 14 in this topic. Use this topic summary to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 14 of 14
Practice
13 questions
Recall
15 flashcards
Topic Summary: Seismic Waves
Key Terms
- P-waves: longitudinal, travel through solids + liquids
- S-waves: transverse, solids only
- Shadow zone: region where waves don't arrive
- Seismograph: instrument detecting seismic waves
Earth's Layers
- Crust (thin, solid)
- Mantle (solid, thick)
- Outer core (LIQUID — S-wave evidence)
- Inner core (solid — P-wave evidence)
Key Evidence
- S-wave shadow zone → outer core is liquid
- P-wave shadow zone → core has different density
- P-waves still detected → inner core is solid
Exam Tips
- S = Stopped by liquid (transverse can't pass through liquid)
- P = Passes through everything (longitudinal)
- Always explain WHY waves can't pass through liquid
- Outer core = liquid; inner core = solid