Q3. What is the distance of the epicenter from the seismic station?
Answer (1)
center from a seismic station can be determined by analyzing the arrival times of P-waves and S-waves recorded at the station. By measuring the time difference (also known as the S-P interval) between the arrival of these waves, and using a travel-time graph, seismologists can calculate the distance to the earthquake's epicenter. Here's a more detailed explanation:Seismic Waves:Earthquakes generate different types of seismic waves, primarily P-waves (primary or compressional waves) and S-waves (secondary or shear waves). Wave Speed and Arrival Time:P-waves travel faster than S-waves. This means they will reach a seismic station sooner than the S-waves. S-P Interval:The time difference between the arrival of the first P-wave and the first S-wave at a seismic station is called the S-P interval or P-S time lag. Travel-Time Graph:Seismologists use travel-time graphs that show the relationship between travel time and distance for both P-waves and S-waves. By finding the S-P interval on the graph, they can determine the distance to the epicenter. Multiple Stations:To pinpoint the exact location of the epicenter (the point on the surface directly above the earthquake's origin), data from at least three seismic stations is typically needed. For example, if the S-P interval is 4 minutes, the distance to the epicenter can be estimated to be between 240 and 300 kilometers using a travel-time graph on Brainly. The exact distance will depend on the specific travel-time graph used and any geological factors that might affect wave propagation, according to Brainly.
