Surface Wave

Plain Definition: Seismic waves that travel along the Earth's surface and typically cause the most damage.

Technical Description: Slower than body waves but higher amplitude. Includes Love and Rayleigh waves.

Use in Design: Important in near-fault motions and site-specific ground motion studies.

Meta Title: Surface Wave | Earthquake Ground Motion Type

Meta Description: Learn about surface waves and why they are often the most damaging during earthquakes.