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In Chemistry / Middle School | 2014-02-24

Which type of seismic wave produces the most severe ground movement?

Asked by Pokie

Answer (2)

The surface waves are the type of seismic waves that produce the most severe ground movement. This wave is slow in nature and so produces a rolling effect similar to a surface wave in a pond. This kind of wave is far more devastating than the P waves and the S waves. The surface waves have the capacity to shake a building from side to side until it collapses. This kind of wave moves in a pattern similar to a circle. It actually originates at a point and then start moving outwards in a circle.

Answered by taskmasters | 2024-06-10

Surface waves are the type of seismic waves that cause the most severe ground movement during an earthquake. They include Love waves, which move side-to-side, and Rayleigh waves, which create a rolling motion. Due to their movement patterns and location, surface waves lead to significant damage to structures on the Earth's surface.
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Answered by taskmasters | 2025-01-10