The size of waves in the open ocean depends on
A) water depth.
B) wind speed and fetch.
C) wind direction.
D) phases of the Moon.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The size of waves in the open ocean depends on wind speed and fetch. Wind speed determines how much energy is transferred to the water, and fetch (the distance over which the wind blows in a consistent direction) allows the waves to build and increase in size. The other choices (water depth, wind direction, phases of the Moon) can affect wave behavior in certain situations, but they do not determine the size of waves in the open ocean.

The Size of Waves in the Open Ocean Depends on