Seismic wave propagation refers to the movement of energy through the Earth in the form of waves generated by events like earthquakes or volcanic activity. These waves travel through different materials, such as rock and soil, and can be classified into two main types: P-waves (primary waves) and S-waves (secondary waves). P-waves are compressional waves that move faster and can travel through solids and liquids, while S-waves are shear waves that only move through solids. As seismic waves propagate, they can be detected by instruments called seismometers, which measure the intensity and duration of the waves. The data collected helps scientists understand the Earth's internal structure and the dynamics of seismic events. By analyzing the speed and path of these waves, researchers can also locate the epicenter of an earthquake and assess its potential impact.