Calculate the velocity of shear waves (S-waves) in a medium.
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About this calculator
Quick Reference
GShear Modulus (Pa)
ρDensity (kg/m³)
VsShear Wave Velocity (m/s)
Overview
Shear waves, also known as S-waves or secondary waves, are a type of elastic wave that moves through the body of an object. Their velocity depends on the shear modulus and density of the material.
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Pro Tips
Shear waves cannot travel through liquids or gases because these fluids have zero shear modulus.
Density should be in kg/m³ and Shear Modulus in Pascals (Pa).
Shear wave velocity is slower than P-wave (compressional wave) velocity in the same material.
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Fun Facts
"In seismology, S-waves arrive after P-waves because they travel more slowly."
"The outer core of the Earth is liquid, which was discovered because S-waves cannot pass through it."
"Measuring shear wave velocity is used in geotechnical engineering to assess soil stiffness."
