Waves Flashcards

1
Q

What does the size of a wave depend on?

A

Strength of winds
How long the wind is blowing for
Distance of ocean over which wind blows and the waves build up (the fetch)

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2
Q

What are the two types of waves?

A

Constructive and destructive

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3
Q

What are some characteristics of a destructive wave?

A

Strong backwash than swash so they erode
Usually on a steep beach
High energy
Created in stormy conditions where the wind is powerful and has been blowing for a while
They have a short wavelength and are steep
Higher frequency

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4
Q

What are some characteristics of a constructive wave?

A

They are created in calmer weather conditions so are low energy
They have a stronger swash than backwash so they deposit material on a beach
Usually on a wide and gently sloping beach
They have a long wavelength and are low in height
Lower frequency

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5
Q

What is deposition?

A

When the sea or river loses energy it drops the sand, rock particles and pebbles it has been carrying

This is why beaches form because when waves enter a bay they lose energy and drop their material

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6
Q

What is the fetch over the Atlantic Ocean to the UK?

A

8000km

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7
Q

What types of waves do we get on the SW of Britain and why do we get them?

A

We get destructive waves on the SW of Britain as there are strong winds and a large fetch (8000km) so the waves have lots of energy

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