\[V_s=\sqrt{\frac{G}{\rho}}\]
Variables
VsS-wave velocity (m/s)
Gshear modulus (Pa)
rhomaterial density (kg/m³)
Description
What is this formula?
This formula calculates the propagation velocity of secondary seismic waves (S-waves) in an elastic material. S-waves are transverse shear waves that move particles perpendicular to the propagation direction.
When to use it
Use this equation in seismology and geophysics when studying shear wave propagation through rocks, Earth's crust, and solid planetary interiors.
Example
Calculate the S-wave velocity in basalt with the following properties.
Data:
G = 2.7×10^10 Pa
rho = 3000 kg/m³
Formula:
Vs = √(G/rho)
Substitution:
Vs = √((2.7×10^10)/3000)
Result:
Vs = 3000 m/s
Applications
- Earthquake wave analysis
- Seismic tomography
- Rock mechanics
- Subsurface exploration
- Planetary interior studies