Consider the following statements regarding the shadow zone of seismic waves:
1. The shadow zone for P-waves is larger than that for S-waves.
2. S-waves do not travel through the outer core of the Earth.
3. P-waves can pass through both solid and liquid layers of the Earth.

Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 2 only

Question

Consider the following statements regarding the shadow zone of seismic waves:
1. The shadow zone for P-waves is larger than that for S-waves.
2. S-waves do not travel through the outer core of the Earth.
3. P-waves can pass through both solid and liquid layers of the Earth.

Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 2 only

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

Statement 1 is not correct: The shadow zone for P-waves is smaller than that for S-waves. P-waves can be refracted by the liquid outer core, but some do reach the far side of the Earth, while S-waves are completely blocked by the outer core.

Statement 2 is correct: S-waves are shear waves that require a solid medium to propagate. Since the Earth's outer core is liquid, S-waves cannot travel through it.

Statement 3 is correct: P-waves (primary waves) are longitudinal waves that can travel through both solid and liquid media.

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Shadow Zone of Seismic Waves

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M Question 1	⏱ 0
Consider the following statements regarding the shadow zone of seismic waves: 1. The shadow zone for P-waves is larger than that for S-waves. 2. S-waves do not travel through the outer core of the Earth. 3. P-waves can pass through both solid and liquid layers of the Earth. Which of the above statements are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 2 only