The orbital motion of a deep water wave extends to a depth equal to
A) twice the wavelength.
B) the wave's height.
C) one-half the wavelength.
D) one-half the wave's height.
E) the seafloor depth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The vertical motion of deep water waves is negligible beyond a depth equal to one-half the wavelength. This is due to the fact that the water particles move in circular orbits whose diameter decreases rapidly with depth, becoming zero at a depth equal to one-half the wavelength.

The Orbital Motion of a Deep Water Wave Extends to a Depth