As a seismologist with expertise in the study of seismic waves, I can provide you with an accurate answer to your question regarding the speed of P waves. P waves are indeed the fastest type of body wave that travels through the Earth's interior. They are also known as primary waves or compressional waves. P waves are characterized by their ability to travel through both solid and liquid materials, which is a unique property that distinguishes them from S waves. The speed of P waves can vary depending on the medium they are traveling through, but on average, they do travel about 60% faster than S waves. This is because the Earth's interior reacts differently to the two types of waves; P waves are able to compress and expand the material they pass through, while S waves, which are shear or secondary waves, can only travel through solids. So, to answer your question with the necessary distinction: read more >>

P-waves and S-waves are body waves that propagate through the planet. P-waves travel 60% faster than S-waves on average, because the interior of the Earth does not react the same way to both of them. P-waves are compression waves that apply a force in the direction of propagation.read more >>