Abstract Wave velocity, dispersion, and attenuation are pivotal subjects in seismophysics and geophysical exploration. These characteristics not only underpin the theoretical modeling of the dynamic response of subsurface rocks in the frequency domain but are also instrumental in optimizing geophysical measurement techniques and enhancing inversion accuracy. However, current research on wave propagation in rock media is impeded by fragmented data and a lack of systematic synthesis. To address these challenges, this paper presents a comprehensive review of state‐of‐the‐art research on wave propagation in rock masses. First, we delineate the current landscape of propagation characteristics, focusing on six representative models: the Biot, squirt, BISQ, patchy saturation, crack–pore, and double‐porosity models. By utilizing fluid–solid interaction diagrams, we visually elucidate the energy dissipation mechanisms inherent to these models, clarifying their theoretical foundations, applicability, and limitations. Second, we evaluate the impact of critical factors—including pressure, temperature, mineral composition, and anisotropy—on wave propagation, alongside a discussion on the correlations between physical parameters and velocity variations. Finally, we explore wave propagation behavior within complex geological environments, such as submarine sediments, coral reefs, permafrost, and low‐velocity layers. This analysis reveals how heterogeneity, fracture structures, and fluid presence significantly modulate velocity, dispersion, and attenuation. Synthesizing these findings, we establish a preliminary systematic framework for characterizing wave propagation in rock masses. The review concludes by summarizing existing limitations and proposing future research directions, aiming to provide robust theoretical support for seismic wave mechanism studies, exploration, and geophysical engineering applications.
Shu et al. (Sun,) studied this question.