Which of the following earthquake waves are longitudinal waves?

The correct answer is Option 2. 

Key Points

• The longitudinal waves, also known as compressional waves or primary waves, are represented by the letter "P."
• P waves are the fastest seismic waves and can travel through solid, liquid, and gas.
• They cause particles to move in the same direction as the wave propagation, creating a push-pull motion.

​Additional Information

•  P waves (Primary waves):
  • Also known as compressional waves.
  • Longitudinal waves that travel through the Earth's interior.
  • They cause particles to compress and expand in the same direction as the wave travels.
  • Can travel through solid, liquid, and gas.
  • Fastest seismic waves.
  • First waves to be recorded by seismographs.
• S waves (Secondary waves):
  • Also known as shear waves.
  • Transverse waves that travel through the Earth's interior.
  • They cause particles to move perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
  • Can only travel through solids.
  • Slower than P waves.
  • Second waves to be recorded by seismographs.
• L waves (Love waves):
  • Surface waves that travel along the Earth's surface.
  • Named after A.E.H. Love, who mathematically described their behavior.
  • They cause particles to move in a horizontal, side-to-side motion.
  • Slower than P and S waves.
  • Responsible for the most significant damage during an earthquake.
• N waves (Rayleigh waves):
  • Surface waves that travel along the Earth's surface.
  • Named after Lord Rayleigh, who mathematically described their behavior.
  • They cause particles to move in an elliptical motion, with both vertical and horizontal components.
  • Slower than P and S waves.
  • Can cause vertical ground displacement and rolling motion.