Science·Volcanoes & Earthquakes·conceptual
Seismic Waves & Earth's Interior
Distinguish between P-waves (compression, travel through solids and liquids) and S-waves (shear, cannot pass through liquids); explain why a seismic shadow zone exists on the far side of an earthquake; describe how seismologists use wave refraction and reflection to infer that Earth has a solid inner core, liquid outer core, mantle, and crust
Suggested ages 11–13
Evidence of understanding
No evidence statements are recorded.
Assessment prompt
Can Seismic Waves & Earth's Interior explain how scientists know Earth has a liquid outer core if nobody has ever drilled that deep — what clues do earthquake waves give us about Earth's hidden interior?
Standards alignment
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