Seismic waves are primarily categorized into three types: P-waves, S-waves, and surface waves. P-waves (primary waves) are compressional waves that move back and forth in the same direction as the wave, causing particles in the rock to compress and expand. S-waves (secondary waves) move perpendicular to the direction of wave travel, causing particles to move side to side, which results in shear stress in the rocks. Surface waves travel along the Earth's surface, causing both vertical and horizontal ground movement, similar to ocean waves, which often leads to the most damage during an earthquake.
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