Rayleigh Waves
Rayleigh Waves are a type of surface seismic wave that travel along the Earth's surface. They are named after the British scientist Lord Rayleigh, who first described them. These waves cause both vertical and horizontal ground movement, resulting in a rolling motion similar to ocean waves.
Rayleigh Waves typically have a slower speed compared to other seismic waves, such as P-waves and S-waves. They are often responsible for the most damage during an earthquake due to their strong ground motion and longer duration. Understanding Rayleigh Waves is crucial for assessing earthquake impacts and improving building designs.