If a student assumes P and S waves have the same medium capacity what is the correct correction?

Correct answer: P waves travel in solids liquids gases but S waves do not travel in liquids

P waves and S waves are both seismic body waves, but they do not pass through the same kinds of material. A P wave is a compressional wave and can travel through solids, liquids, and gases. An S wave is a shear wave and requires a material with enough rigidity to transmit sideways motion, so it travels through solids but cannot pass through liquids or gases. This difference is an important clue about Earth’s interior.

Option A is correct because it states that P waves travel through solids, liquids, and gases, whereas S waves do not travel through liquids. Options B and C are wrong because neither type is restricted in that way, and option D wrongly denies that they are seismic waves. In particular, the absence of S waves through the outer core shows that this layer is liquid, while the behaviour of P waves helps scientists infer boundaries and material changes inside Earth.