5A volcanologist measures the distance between two monitoring stations as 2.4 kilometers. If seismic waves travel at 800 meters per second, how long in seconds does it take for a wave to travel between the stations?

Mon, 04 May 2026 11:07:34 +0000

**Your Mystery: How Long Do Seismic Waves Take Across 2.4 Kilometers?** In an era where real-time data drives decision-making, the simple yet precise question echoes through scientific circles and public curiosity alike: if a volcanologist measures a 2.4-kilometer gap between monitoring stations and seismic waves travel at 800 meters per second, how long does it take for the signal to travel that distance? This query reflects growing interest in earthquake preparedness, geoscience accuracy, and the role of precision in hazard monitoring across the U.S. and beyond—where understanding natural phenomena shapes safety, infrastructure, and policy. It’s a problem rooted in real-world urgency, where clarity and reliable calculations matter more than ever. --- ### Why This Matter to the U.S. Audience