Physics Question

Question

The velocity of the transverse waves produced by an earthquake is 4.35 km/s, while that of the longitudinal waves is 4.13 km/s. A seismograph records the arrival of the transverse waves 64.72 s after that of the longitudinal waves.

How far away was the earthquake? Answer in meters

Answer 1

The difference in the time it takes for the longitudinal wave (L) vs the transverse wave (T) is

d/v_L- d/v_T =Δt Combine fractions..

(v_Td - v_Ld)/(v_Lv_T) = Δt Solve for d

d =v_Lv_T Δt/(v_T-v_L)

In order to get d in meters, you have to use velocities in m/s

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