Tsunamis vs wind waves

What is a key difference between tsunamis and other ocean waves?

• Tsunamis only affect the near-surface layer of the ocean.

• Tsunamis move through the entire water column.

• Other ocean waves move through the entire water column.

• Tsunamis are caused by wind blowing over the water.

What is the primary source of energy for wind waves?

• Earthquakes

• Volcanic activity

• Winds that blow across the near-surface layer of the ocean

• Meteorites

What is the typical wavelength of a tsunami?

• 300-600 miles

• 300-600 feet

• 5-20 seconds

• 90-180 meters

How fast can tsunamis travel in deep water?

• 8-100 km/h

• 500-600 mph

• 20-30 mph

• 5-60 mph

What causes most other ocean waves?

• Large and sudden displacements of the ocean

• Wind blowing over the water

• Earthquakes below or near the ocean floor

• Volcanic activity

What is the period of a wind wave?

• 500-1,000 kilometers

• 5 minutes-2 hours

• 300-600 miles

• 5-20 seconds

Why do tsunamis appear smaller in height in the deep ocean?

• They have shorter wavelengths.

• They carry less energy.

• They have long wavelengths.

• They involve a smaller volume of water.

What happens to waves as they enter shallow water near land?

• Their height and steepness decrease.

• They slow down.

• They break like wind waves.

• Their wavelength increases.

Why are tsunamis more dangerous than wind waves?

• They have shorter wavelengths.

• They quickly recede after reaching the shore.

• They carry a larger volume of water and transmit more energy.

• They break at the shore.

What is required for a wave to break?

• A long wavelength

• A short period

• A very steep height

• A slow speed