The orbital motion of water molecules in a wave goes down to a depth equal to the wavelength divided by two.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This statement is known as the "orbital wave theory". According to this theory, water molecules move in a circular orbital motion as a wave passes through them. The diameter of this circular motion is half the wavelength of the wave, which means that the depth to which this motion extends is also half the wavelength of the wave. Therefore, the statement is true.

The Orbital Motion of Water Molecules in a Wave Goes