Formula for the Speed of Ocean Waves

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1. Apr 19, 2015

Charles W

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

Which formula could be correct for the speed v of ocean waves in terms of the density ρ of sea-water, the acceleration of free fall g, the depth h of the ocean and the wavelength λ?

The possible answers listed are:

1. $v = \sqrt{gλ}$
2. $v = \sqrt{g/h}$
3. $v = \sqrt{ρgh}$
4.$v = \sqrt{g/ρ}$

2. Relevant equations

$v = fλ$

3. The attempt at a solution

I seem to think that $v = fλ$ is relevant to this question, and I have tried to apply it but haven't ended up with any of the possible answer

2. Apr 19, 2015

Orodruin

Staff Emeritus
Have you considered that the question may be much more basic than that? Which is the only answer that is a velocity?

3. Apr 19, 2015

Charles W

I hadn't realised that before, no, and now I can see why A is the only possible answer.

However, is there a more conceptual reason for this, which could be used to work out the answer without the given options?

Thanks! :)

4. Apr 19, 2015

Orodruin

Staff Emeritus
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