The wavelength of tsunamis in midocean is on the order of several hundred miles. The speed of tsunami waves where the ocean is a few miles deep is on the order of the speed of sound in air. As the wave approaches land, its amplitude must
A) increase modestly.
B) increase dramatically.
C) decrease modestly.
D) decrease dramatically.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As a tsunami wave approaches shallower water near land, its speed decreases due to the shallower depth. Conservation of energy dictates that as the wave slows down, its height (amplitude) must increase to conserve energy. This results in a dramatic increase in the wave's amplitude as it approaches the shore.

The Wavelength of Tsunamis in Midocean Is on the Order