Question

Why are p waves called push-pull waves?

Answer 1

P waves are called push-pull waves because they move along a horizontal path. As they do this, they expand and contract material.

Answer 2

Answer;

Because they move in a horizontal path

Explanation;

• P waves or the primary waves are the first waves to arrive during an earthquake. They are the fastest waves created by an earthquake.
• P waves travel through the interior of the earth and an pass through both solid and molten rock.
• These waves are also known as compressional waves due to their pulling and pushing. When particles are subjected to a P wave they move in the same direction as the wave motion which is the direction of energy travel.