ripple

water wave

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

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A ripple is a small wave on the surface of water, often caused by a disturbance. These small waves are primarily driven by surface tension, distinguishing them from larger gravity waves where gravity is the main restoring force. Ripple marks, a topographic feature found on sandy bottoms, form when oscillation waves move water particles in closed orbits. If the water's motion is strong enough to move sand grains, these rhythmic patterns of peaks and troughs develop. Ripples can also describe water flowing in a gentle, irregular stream.123

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fluid mechanics
Waves on deep water
…are generally referred to as ripples. In such waves, the pressure differences across the curved surface of the water associated with surface tension (see equation [129]) are not negligible, and the appropriate expression for their speed of propagation is
Read More
…are generally referred to as ripples. In such waves, the pressure differences across the curved surface of the water associated with surface tension (see equation [129]) are not negligible, and the appropriate expression for their speed of propagation is
Read More