First of all, Earthquakes are not necessarily transverse waves. Both transverse and longitudinal waves are there in Seismic waves. These waves depend upon both Modulus of elasticity and Density of medium. Longitudinal P-waves (primary) have properties similar to that of sound and due to their compressive & rarefactive wave motion, They reach us faster than transverse S-waves (secondary). These are the Before-socks as what we call.
It is the effect of S-waves which cause the shear fracture of the rocks (due to high amplitudes). They result of rapid sideways movement of faults thereby causing rocks to shake randomly around their hypo-center. They typically travel up to 60% of the velocity of P-waves. They necessarily require the Shear-modulus of the medium. But, they're the most destructive type of all.
All the answers for your questions are YES. 'Cause they've already been a done-deal..!
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