Question

In an earthquake, a P wave is a longitudinal wave. It moves through soil and rock as a

A. wavy line.
B. series of faults.
C. series of compressions and rarefactions.
D. series of crests and troughs.

Answer 1

In an earthquake, a P wave is a longitudinal wave. It moves through soil and rock as a C. series of compressions and rarefactions.

Answer 2

Answer: C. series of compression and rarefaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

A longitudinal wave is the one where medium particles oscillate in the direction of wave motion. The energy is transferred by series of compression and rarefaction. Compression is region of high density of medium particles and rarefaction is the low density region through which the wave travels.

Thus, a P wave of earthquake which is a longitudinal wave traverses through soil by a series of compression and rarefaction.