How can a harmonic oscillator model be used to describe ocean surface movement?

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The discussion focuses on modeling a harmonic oscillator to simulate ocean surface movement, specifically using a mass connected by springs within a spherical shell. The user is exploring a system of three coupled masses with a single frequency to represent ocean waves. There is uncertainty about the complexity of the model and whether it effectively captures the dynamics of ocean movement. Suggestions indicate that the setup may be overly complicated and that a simpler approach might yield better results. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for clarity and efficiency in modeling ocean surface behavior.
JPBenowitz
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So I am trying to model a harmonic oscillator floating on the oceans surface. I treated this as a harmonic oscillator within a harmonic oscillator and I am not sure if I am heading in the correct direction. Just to be clear this isn't a homework problem just something I am working on.

The system consists of a mass connected by two springs inside a spherical shell lying on the oceans surface. I modeled the system with 3-coupled masses connected by spring constant k, where m1 and m3 are connected to another spring with constant k'. m1 and m3 are the ends of the spherical shell and k' is the spring constant I am modeling the ocean waves passing by with (a single frequency for now). For convenience I let m1=m2=m3. Am I on the right track? Is there a better way of thinking of this problem to more effectively model it?
 
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Oh I see, you have a mass-on-spring, and you put it on a boat (OK, a spherical boat)?

It's a driven harmonic oscillator.
Your setup is very complicated.
 
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