If earth was completely solid and homogeneous throughout, how would have the P and S waves behave when they traveled through it? Explain while giving reference to how they actually behave.

The current status of the two body waves- P and S are as follows. The P waves are the fastest seismic waves and can travel through all materials, whereas the S waves are somewhat slower and can travel through only solids. The P waves are compressional whereas the S waves are shear.
However, if the earth was completely solid and homogenous throughout, there would be completely a different scenario. The P and the S waves would travel in straight paths. But due to heterogeneity of the earth, there is the possibility of refraction taking place and the seismic waves take a curvy path. Also, observed are the various discontinuities which take place due to changes in earth’s material and properties.

Originally written on June 25, 2023 and last modified on October 27, 2024.

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