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

Question

Tsunamis are fast-moving waves generated by underwater earthquakes. In the deep ocean their amplitude is barely noticeable, but upon reaching shore, they can rise up to the astonishing height of a six-story building. One tsunami, generated off the Aleutian islands in Alaska, had a wavelength of 750 km and traveled a distance of 3700 km in 4.8 h. (a) What was the speed (in m/s) of the wave? For reference, the speed of a 747 jetliner is about 250 m/s. m/s (b) Find the wave's frequency. Hz (c) Find the wave's period.

Explanation / Answer

a)

for the speed of the wave

speed of wave = distance/time

speed of wave = 3700/4.8 km/hr

speed of wave = 771 km/hr

the speed of wave is 771 km/hr

b)

for the frequency

frequency * 750 *10^3 = 771 * 1000/3600

solving

frequency = 0.000286 Hz

c)

wave's period = 1/frequency

wave's period = 1/0.000286

wave's period = 3501 Hz

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