Because earths crust is denser than the mantle
"True, the Seismic Waves change speed and direction when they encounter different materials."
The speed of seismic waves are affected by the type of material that the waves are traveling through. in other words (as an example): some type of waves can travel through rocks but not through liquids.
Seismic waves are characterized by their speed, wavelength, frequency, and the medium through which they travel. There are two main types: primary (P) waves, which are compressional and travel fastest through solids and liquids, and secondary (S) waves, which are shear waves that only move through solids and are slower than P waves. Additionally, seismic waves can be categorized as surface waves, which travel along the Earth's surface and typically cause the most damage during earthquakes due to their larger amplitudes and longer durations. Their characteristics provide crucial information about the Earth's interior and the nature of seismic events.
The Moho
In air, the seismic waves(P-wave) are simply sound waves, and travel with the speed of sound (approx. 335 m/s).
The speed of the movement of the wave through the crust helps to work out the structure of the rocks below the surface of the earth. If the waves move slower the indication is that they are moving through a sedimentary type of rock such as sandstone. If the waves are moving more quickly that would indicate a more crystalline rock like granite..
The composition of the crust under continents consists mainly of granitic rocks (continental crust). We know this through seismic studies that measure the speed of seismic waves traveling through the crust, density measurements, and rock samples brought up from drilling and mountain-building processes.
Type of land surface, speed and volume of water.
Seismic waves are crucial for studying the Earth's interior as they provide valuable information about its composition and structure. By analyzing how these waves travel through different layers, scientists can infer properties such as density and state (solid or liquid) of materials beneath the surface. The speed and behavior of seismic waves help identify boundaries between layers, such as the crust, mantle, and core, thereby enhancing our understanding of geological processes and the Earth's formation.
"True, the Seismic Waves change speed and direction when they encounter different materials."
Continents can block the flow of surface currents, creating barriers that deflect the currents in different directions. They can also influence the direction and speed of currents by shaping the coastlines and creating deep ocean basins that can channel currents. Additionally, continents can impact the distribution of heat and moisture, which can affect the intensity and direction of surface currents.
The speed of seismic waves from fastest to slowest is P waves (primary waves), S waves (secondary waves), and then surface waves. L waves are a type of surface wave, so they are generally slower than both P and S waves.
Continental drift occurs at a rate of about 2-5 centimeters per year, which is approximately the same speed at which fingernails grow. This movement is due to the slow spreading of tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface. Over millions of years, this movement can lead to significant changes in the positions of continents.
they use vaginas
Seismic wave studies have helped scientists determine the structure of Earth's interior by observing how these waves travel and get refracted or reflected by different layers beneath the surface. By analyzing the speed, direction, and behavior of seismic waves, scientists can infer the composition, density, and temperature of Earth's various layers, such as the crust, mantle, and core, providing valuable insights into the structure and dynamics of our planet's interior.
When seismic waves hit the Moho (Mohorovičić discontinuity), they can either be reflected back to the surface, refracted as they pass through the boundary, or converted into a different type of wave. This boundary separates the Earth's crust from the underlying mantle, resulting in changes in seismic wave behavior.
The three types of waves in order of speed are: P-waves (Primary waves) - fastest seismic waves, travel through solid and liquid. S-waves (Secondary waves) - slower than P-waves, can only travel through solid. Surface waves - slowest seismic waves, travel along Earth's surface causing most damage during earthquakes.