Which seismic wave is the fastest and can travel through solids, liquids, and gases?

Primary waves, also known as P-waves, are seismic waves characterized by their ability to travel at the highest speeds among all seismic wave types. They are compressional waves, which means they propagate by compressing and expanding the material they travel through. This unique trait allows them to move through solids, liquids, and gases, making them the first waves detected by seismographs during an earthquake.

In contrast, secondary waves are slower and can only move through solids, while surface waves, which travel along the Earth's surface, arrive after the P-waves and S-waves and generally cause more destruction. Long waves are not a standard classification in seismic wave studies. Consequently, the ability of primary waves to traverse different states of matter while maintaining the highest velocity makes them the correct choice in this context.