Chapter 26, Problem 7TE

What does the P-wave shadow tell us about Earth’s composition?

To determine

The P-wave shadow that tells about Earth’s composition.

Answer to Problem 7TE

The P wave shadow tells that there is an inner core because of many numbers of times the p waves refract.

Explanation of Solution

P- waves are faster, and they can move through both solids as well as liquids. In contrast, S-waves are slower and cannot travel through liquids. Scientists are able to study about the Earth's inner core with the help of seismic waves.

The shadow zone is the Earth's region, where direct P waves cannot be obtained. The P-wave shadow zone is the result of the refraction effects P-waves go through as they move at a depth of the Earth.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the P wave shadow tells that there is an inner core because of many numbers of times the p waves refract.