Finding Wavelength and Velocity of an Ocean Wave.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the wavelength and velocity of an ocean wave, given specific parameters such as water depth, frequency, and amplitude.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to identify missing variables or equations necessary for solving the problem. Some participants suggest measuring wavelength directly from crest to crest, while others note the absence of such data in the provided information. Additionally, a participant proposes a relationship between wavelength and velocity, indicating that it can lead to a single unknown variable but requires numerical methods for resolution.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem and suggesting various approaches. There is no explicit consensus, but some guidance has been offered regarding the relationships between the variables involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working with limited information, particularly regarding the measurement of wavelength, and are discussing the implications of the given data on the problem-solving process.

Whatamiat
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Homework Statement



Find Wavelength and Velocity of an Ocean Wave.

Known Variables:
Water Depth=300m
Frequency=8secs
Amplitude=3m


Homework Equations


Wavelength (m) X Frequency (s-1) = velocity (m/s)
ocwav.gif

v=velocity

The Attempt at a Solution



I have 2 missing variables for both of the above equations.
Am I missing a variable or equation?

Thanks.
 

Attachments

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To find the wavelength of an ocean wave you just need to measure from crest to crest.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
cobrastrike said:
To find the wavelength of an ocean wave u just need to measure from crest to crest.

if only that were in the given data
 
If you replace \lambda in your equation according to
\lambda = \frac{v}{f} where f is known
you will have an equation with only one unknown, v.
However this equation cannot be solved analytically but only by numerical methods.
 

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