wave: Quick Facts

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Facts

Also Known As	water wave

Photos and Videos

A line graph compares types of surface waves by energy and wave frequency, showing ordinary tide waves, long-period waves, wind waves, and capillary waves, with causes such as wind, storms, and earthquakes labeled above each category.

Diagram showing the stages of a tsunami, from its generation at the earthquake epicenter under the ocean, through wave propagation across open water, to cresting and inundation as the waves reach and flood coastal land.

Pixelated window with the text TSUNAMI OR WAVE? and a large cursor overlaying a background of a large wave hitting the coast.

Harnessing wave power: The Pelamis generator

Observe a demonstration of how wind energy transferred to water generates waves

How Tsunamis Form from Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Landslides

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Topics

breaker longshore current Kelvin wedge phase speed soliton wave spectrum storm wave surface wave wind wave non-dispersive wave electromagnetic radiation sound ocean current ocean acidification Gravitational wave tide Water cycle seismic wave longitudinal wave standing wave

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Metal and enamel pan of boiling water on stove. (boiling point; cooking; steam; cooking gas; non-electric)

Aitch-Two-Oh?

water glass on white background. (drink; clear; clean water; liquid)

Water and its Varying Forms