Speed of a Tsunami Tsunamis can have wavelengths between 100 and 400 km. Since t

Question

Speed of a Tsunami Tsunamis can have wavelengths between 100 and 400 km. Since this is much greater than the average depth of the oceans (about 4.3 km), the ocean can be considered as shallow water for these waves. In shallow water of depth d the speed of waves is approximately v=gd. Part A Find the typical speed for a tsunami. (Note: In the open ocean, tsunamis generally have an amplitude of less than a meter, allowing them to pass ships unnoticed. As they approach shore, however, the water depth decreases and the waves slow down. This can result in an increase of amplitude to as much as 37 m or more.) Express your answer using two significant figures. v=______m/s

Explanation / Answer

Given,

depth = d = 4.3 km = 4300 m

we need to find the speed v which can be calculated as follows:

v = sqrt ( g d) = sqrt (9.81 x 4300) = 205.4 m/s

Hence speed = v = 205.4 m/s.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse S
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.