What is the main reason that ray paths of seismic waves are curved like dipping arcs, rather than proceeding along the straightest, shortest path as they pass through the whole earth?
A) The rock layers themselves are bent and sagged and the waves actually travel parallel to the distorted rock layers or beds.
B) The earth gets too hot and the seismic waves steer away into the shallower, colder regions.
C) The stiffest, most brittle rocks near the surface transmit sound waves better.
D) Velocity increases with depth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The curvature of seismic wave paths is primarily due to the increase in velocity with depth. As seismic waves travel deeper into the Earth, they move faster due to the increasing pressure and density of the materials they pass through. This change in velocity causes the waves to refract, resulting in curved paths.

What Is the Main Reason That Ray Paths of Seismic