Body waves are of two types. They are called ‘P’ waves and ‘S’ waves.
1. ‘P’ waves: These are also known as primary waves. These are fast moving waves. These waves are like sound waves and reach the surface first. These waves can pass through solid, liquid and gas, all three types of materials.
2. ‘S’ waves: These are also known as secondary waves. These waves reach the surface some time after the primary waves. These waves can travel only through solids. Because of this characteristic, scientists have been successful in understanding the structure of Earth’s interior.
