Chapter 16: Problem 12

Explain how a seismic sea wave attains such tremendous velocities. Why is it given a Japanese name-tsunami?

Short Answer

Expert verified

A seismic sea wave, or tsunami, attains such high speeds due to the water depth. Deeper water allows for faster wave speed. The term 'tsunami' is of Japanese origin, combining 'tsu' (harbor) and 'nami' (wave), reflecting the devastating impact these waves have traditionally had on harbor locations in Japan.

Step by step solution

Understand the Nature of a Seismic Sea Wave

A seismic sea wave, also known as a tsunami, is a series of waves caused by the displacement of a large volume of water, usually an ocean. This displacement is often due to geological activities like undersea earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides.

Explain the Propagation Velocity of a Tsunami

The tremendous speed at which a tsunami moves can be understood by discussing the formula for wave speed: \( v = \sqrt{{gd}} \), where \( v \) is the velocity, \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity, and \( d \) is the depth of water. This means that the deeper the ocean, the faster the tsunami travels. In deep ocean, a tsunami can travel at speeds akin to a commercial jet. As it nears the shore and the water's depth decreases, the speed of the tsunami decreases but its amplitude or wave height increases, causing destructive power.

Explain the Origin of the Term 'Tsunami'

The term 'tsunami' is of Japanese origin. It comes from the combination of two words: 'tsu', which means 'harbor', and 'nami', which means 'wave'. This is because in Japan, tsunamis have historically been observed to have the most dramatic impact at harbor locations due to the increase in wave height as it nears the shore.

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Explain how a seismic sea wave attains such tremendous velocities. Why is it given a Japanese name-tsunami?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the Nature of a Seismic Sea Wave

Explain the Propagation Velocity of a Tsunami

Explain the Origin of the Term 'Tsunami'

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