How do P-waves and S-waves differ?

Answer 1

P-waves are longitudinal, S-waves are transverse.

P-waves travel faster than S-waves.

P-waves can travel through Solids and Liquids whereas S-waves can only travel through solids.

Answer 2

S-Waves (Transverse waves) propagate by a pure shear in a direction perpendicular to the direction of wave travel.

P-Waves (Longitudinal waves) propagate by compressional dilation uniaxial strains in the direction of wave travel.

Answer 3

P-waves are pressure (i.e. compression-rarefaction) waves similar to sound waves. Then material is moved forward-backward in the direction of wave propagation. They can pass through any medium (i.e. solid, liquid, gas) and travel faster than any other earthquake generated wave so they are the first ones you feel. Because a P-wave can pass through gas, they can sometimes be heard during a strong earthquake.

S-waves are shear (i.e. side to side) waves similar to the waves when you shake a taut rope. The material is moving sideways perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. They can only pass through solids. They usually do more damage than P-waves.

Answer 4

They both carry energy, just not the same amount.

Answer 5

Both are elastic earthquake waves. P (compression and dilation) is faster than S which looks like a sinusoidal wave.