What characteristics of seismic waves?

Seismic waves are characterized by their speed, wavelength, frequency, and the medium through which they travel. There are two main types: primary (P) waves, which are compressional and travel fastest through solids and liquids, and secondary (S) waves, which are shear waves that only move through solids and are slower than P waves. Additionally, seismic waves can be categorized as surface waves, which travel along the Earth's surface and typically cause the most damage during earthquakes due to their larger amplitudes and longer durations. Their characteristics provide crucial information about the Earth's interior and the nature of seismic events.