![]() If there is a limited fetch, say 10 nm to land, and the wind is blowing at 36 knots, the waves will be 7′ high no matter how long the wind blows. ![]() There are theoretical limitations, however, for each variable. Wave Period (length of time between crests).Wave Steepness (angle between crest and trough).The greater each of the variables in the equation, the greater the waves. ![]() Distance of open water that the wind blows over called fetchĪll of these factors have to work together to create waves.There are three factors that make up waves: Keeping all of that in mind, we’ll throw out reality and concentrate on theory for a few minutes here. Anatomy Of A Wave: How Are Waves Measured? In reality, alternating weather patterns, varying water depths, opposing currents, fetch obstruction, and a multitude of other factors may change the way waves in a particular area react. How, in a perfect world, waves would behave. What we will examine here are the laboratory examples of wave creation. Regardless, an understanding of what makes a “textbook” wave can be of considerable merit to the sailor. There are simple physical factors that makeup the “normal” wave, but within the forces of nature, there are a myriad of other factors that need be considered into the equation. Kind of a hypocritical statement considering the intent behind this article, but it is a hard, cold fact. The first rule of waves, especially in the open ocean, is that there are no rules. Understanding how waves are made, how they normally behave, and how to predict their response to weather can make the difference between a smooth, comforting time on the water and a bumpy, frightening experience. Well, at least that’s what happens with me… But waves are much more than tranquil anomalies, they can be dangerous and destructive to any vessel in almost any body of water. Understanding and Utilizing the Secrets of WavesĪny time you picture a body of water larger than a puddle, one of the first things that comes to mind are the rolling waves, or the surf lapping at the shore.
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