Tsunamis are fast moving waves often generated by underwater earthquakes. In the

Question

Tsunamis are fast moving waves often generated by underwater earthquakes. In the deep ocean their amplitude is barely noticeable, but upon reaching shore, they can rise up as high as a six story building. A recent tsunami has been estimated by some to have a wavelength of 750 km and was suspected to travel a distance of 3700 km in about 5.3 hours. Determine the wave's (a) speed, (b) frequency and (c) period. As a reference, (d) also compare the wave's speed to that of standard passenger jets, 250 m/s. Assuming that the wave would have an amplitude of the six story building with 4 m per story, (e) write the equation of the wave (as a cosine wave). (This problem is double weighted.)

Explanation / Answer

a)

speed = distance travelled / time

V= 3700/5.3

V = 698.11 km/hr = 193.9 m/s

b)

we know that

V = f x wavelength

f = V/wavelength

f = 2.585 x 10^-4 Hz

c)

Time period

T = 1/f

T = 3867.5 sec

d)

wave spee is less than the jet speed

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse T
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.