The discussion centers on the relationship between wave refraction and the change in wave direction or alignment, particularly in the context of water waves approaching a shore. Participants explore the implications of wave behavior as water depth changes and how this affects the perceived direction and alignment of the waves.
Participants express differing views on whether wave alignment and direction are the same, with some asserting they are identical while others suggest a distinction exists. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of wave refraction on direction versus alignment.
Participants do not fully agree on the definitions of direction and alignment, and there are unresolved assumptions about how wave energy interacts with changes in medium.
The energy is flowing at right angles to the alignment. In this respect, your diagram is incorrect on the sides of the promontory.Tom MS said:I can't seem to find anything online that talks about this distinction. I understand how when the water gets shallower that part of the wave gets slowed down so the overall alignment parallels with the shore. However, I wouldn't think that would change the actual direction of the wave. I need a detailed explanation on why I'm probably wrong.
I was talking about the alignment of the crest relative to the shore and the direction that the wave form traveled.mfb said: