The height of a tsunami grows as it approaches a coastline primarily because
A) its energy level increases.
B) its wavelength shortens.
C) the height of the surf is added to the height of the tsunami.
D) None of the above are true-the height of a tsunami remains constant from the time of its origin.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As a tsunami approaches shallow water near the coastline, the water depth decreases, causing the wavelength of the tsunami to shorten. As the wavelength decreases, the wave height increases, leading to a rise in the tsunami's height as it approaches a coastline. This is known as wave shoaling.

The Height of a Tsunami Grows as It Approaches a Coastline