What causes seismic waves?

Seismic waves are generated primarily during the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust, which typically occurs in two key scenarios: earthquakes and explosions. When an earthquake occurs, the movement of tectonic plates generates stress that, when released, creates waves that travel through the Earth. Similarly, explosions, such as those from volcanic activity or human-made detonations, also displace the ground and generate seismic waves as the energy is released. These waves are key to understanding geological processes and are used in seismology to study the structure of the Earth.

While volcanic eruptions can lead to the generation of seismic waves, they are included within the broader category of explosions, which makes the choice focused on earthquakes and explosions more comprehensive. Tsunamis, while associated with seismic activity, are not themselves direct causes of seismic waves; rather, they are the result of the energy released from seismic events. Wind patterns are unrelated to the generation of seismic waves.