Rayleigh Wave

Rayleigh waves are a type of surface seismic wave that travels along the Earth's surface during an earthquake. They move in a rolling motion, similar to waves on water, causing both vertical and horizontal ground movement. These waves are slower than underground seismic waves but often cause the most noticeable shaking experienced during an earthquake. Their energy diminishes with depth, primarily affecting the top few hundred meters of the Earth's crust. Rayleigh waves are important in seismology because they contribute significantly to the damage and destruction during seismic events.