Why are ocean waves generally larger than those on lakes?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fetch length refers to the distance that wind has traveled across open water, and it determines how much energy the wind transfers to the water to create waves. In general, the fetch length is much longer in the ocean than it is in most lakes, so ocean waves tend to be larger.

A, B, D, and E are incorrect because they are not universally true. Wind direction and strength can vary in both oceans and lakes, ships of all sizes can generate waves, and not all ocean waves are caused by tsunamis.

Why Are Ocean Waves Generally Larger Than Those on Lakes