Question

Given below are two statements:
Assertion (A): L waves are responsible for majority of the destructive earthquakes.
Reason (R): They are the surface waves and develop in the immediate vicinity of the epicenter.

• A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
• B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
• C. A is correct but R is not correct
• D. A is not correct but R is correct

Hint:

Surface waves or L waves are generally the most destructive earthquake waves.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
Earthquake waves are mainly body waves and surface waves. Surface waves generally cause the greatest destruction.

Step 1: Check Assertion.
L waves are surface waves and are responsible for much of the earthquake destruction. \[ A \text{ is correct} \]

Step 2: Check Reason.
L waves develop near the surface and travel along the Earth's surface. \[ R \text{ is correct} \]

Step 3: Check explanation.
Because L waves are surface waves, their amplitude near the surface is large and they cause strong damage. \[ R \text{ correctly explains } A \] \[ \therefore \text{Correct Answer is (A)} \]