The most damaging waves of an earthquake are the P-waves. Is this statement true or false?

• A. True
• B. It depends on the quake
• C. P-waves are the most damaging
• D. False

Answer: (D)

Damage from earthquakes is not driven by the fastest waves. P-waves are compressional waves that move quickly and arrive first, but they usually cause less ground shaking than other waves. The most damaging motions come from S-waves and, more notably, surface waves (Love and Rayleigh waves), which travel along the ground and typically have larger amplitudes and longer shaking durations. This combination of strong motion and longer duration on the surface leads to the greatest destruction, especially near the epicenter and in soils that amplify shaking. So the statement is false; surface waves are generally more damaging than P-waves.