Final answer:
Seismic waves, including P-waves and S-waves, are the vibrations that carry the energy of an earthquake through the Earth. They help geologists study the structure and composition of the Earth. The energy these waves carry is significant and can cause widespread destruction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The vibrations that travel through Earth carrying the energy of an earthquake are called seismic waves. These waves include surface waves and waves that travel inside the Earth. The ones under Earth's surface are both longitudinal and transverse components - known as P-waves (Pressure waves) and S-waves (shear waves) respectively. ØThey propagate at different speeds, with P-waves usually faster than S-waves.
Just like a struck bell, seismic waves travel through the Earth, providing clues about the planet’s composition and structure.
As the seismic waves spread out from the epicenter, the amplitude decreases, resulting in less damage the farther they get from the earthquake's source. The energy carried by these waves is colossal, and it's clearly visible through the destruction left in the wake of an earthquake.
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