Question

which example best illustrates a method to show differences among earths layers?
carla models how the continental crust varies in thickness.
mendel records atmospheric and oceanic temperatures at several beaches.
eliza analyzes seismic wave activity from an earthquake using a computer model.
oscar determines the pressure at different depths of earths crust.

Explanation:

Seismic waves are used to study Earth's layers. When an earthquake occurs, seismic waves (P - waves and S - waves) travel through the Earth. P - waves can travel through solids, liquids, and gases, while S - waves can only travel through solids. By analyzing how these waves behave (e.g., their speed, direction of travel) as they pass through different layers of the Earth (crust, mantle, core), scientists can infer the properties (such as composition, density) of these layers. A computer model can be used to simulate and analyze this complex wave - layer interaction.

• Option A only focuses on the continental crust's thickness, not showing differences among all of Earth's layers.
• Option B records temperatures at beaches, which is related to the surface (atmosphere and ocean near the surface) and not Earth's internal layers.
• Option D only determines pressure at different depths of the crust, not giving a comprehensive picture of differences among all Earth's layers like the seismic wave analysis does.

Answer:

C. Eliza analyzes seismic wave activity from an earthquake using a computer model