Question

question 6 of 10
scientists have been able to determine the composition of earths layers by:
a. making inferences based on data from seismic waves.
b. studying photographs taken from satellites.
c. shooting x - rays into the planet.
d. drilling down and bringing up samples to study.

Explanation:

Scientists use seismic waves (P - waves and S - waves) to study the Earth's interior. P - waves can travel through solids, liquids, and gases, while S - waves can only travel through solids. By analyzing how these waves travel through the Earth (such as their speed, direction changes), they make inferences about the composition and structure of the Earth's layers. Satellite photographs mainly show the Earth's surface features. Shooting X - rays into the planet is not a practical method for studying the Earth's interior on a large scale. Drilling only gives information about a very limited and shallow part of the Earth compared to the overall structure of the Earth's layers.

Answer:

A. making inferences based on data from seismic waves.