Which feature best describes seismic waves?

Seismic waves are best described by their ability to be detected by seismographs. These specialized instruments are designed to measure the vibrations caused by seismic waves as they travel through the Earth. When an earthquake occurs, for instance, seismic waves ripple outward from the source and can be recorded by seismographs, allowing scientists to analyze the wave patterns and gather information about the earthquake's epicenter, depth, and magnitude.

The function and design of seismographs make them essential tools in seismology, providing critical data regarding the behavior of these waves as they interact with different layers of the Earth's interior. This detection capability is crucial for assessing earthquake impacts and improving safety measures in geology and engineering.