12.3 Currents and Waves

Question 1

Breaker

Answer 1

A wave that is tipping over at the top as it enters shallow water.

Question 2

Coriolis effect

Answer 2

The tendency of wind and ocean currents to move in curved paths due to the rotation of Earth.

Question 3

Crest

Answer 3

The high point of a wave.

Question 4

Current

Answer 4

A horizontal flow of water in a lake or ocean.

Question 5

Gyre

Answer 5

A group of mid-latitude ocean currents that make a loop around an entire ocean basin.

Question 6

Period

Answer 6

The amount of time it takes for one complete wave to pass by a location.

Question 7

Trough

Answer 7

The low point of a wave.

Question 8

Undertow

Answer 8

The current formed by water returning to the ocean beneath breakers on a beach.

Question 9

Wave

Answer 9

A rhythmic up-and-down or back-and-forth movement that carries energy through matter or space.

Question 10

Wave height

Answer 10

The vertical difference between the trough and crest of a wave.

Question 11

Wavelength

Answer 11

The horizontal distance from crest to crest or trough to trough of a wave.