What are the main types of seismic waves generated by earthquakes, and how do primary (P-waves) and secondary (S-waves) waves differ in terms of propagation speed, motion, and ability to penetrate through different Earth materials, providing valuable information about the Earth's interior structure, composition, and seismic hazards?

Seismic waves are energy waves generated by earthquakes that travel through the Earth’s interior. The main types of seismic waves are primary (P-waves) and secondary (S-waves). P-waves are compressional waves that travel faster than S-waves and can propagate through both solids and liquids. They cause particles to move in the same direction as the wave’s propagation. S-waves are shear waves that travel slower than P-waves and can only propagate through solids. They cause particles to move perpendicular to the wave’s propagation. By studying the behavior of seismic waves as they travel through the Earth, scientists can infer information about the Earth’s interior structure, composition, and seismic hazards.