| a longitudinal earthquake wave that travels through the interior of the earth and is usually the first conspicuous wave to be recorded by a seismograph. |
| primary wave n. An earthquake wave in which rock particles vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel. It can travel through solids and liquids. |
P wave n.
A deflection in an electrocardiogram indicating depolarization of the atria.
| primary wave
A type of seismic body wave in which rock particles vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel. Primary waves are alternatingly compressional and extensional, and cause the rocks they pass through to change in volume. These waves are the fastest traveling seismic waves and can travel through solids, liquids, and gases. Also called P wave. See Note at earthquake. |
| P wave
See primary wave. |
