Frequency at Spectral Peak Calculator

Frequency at Spectral Peak Formula:

\[ f_p = 3.5 \times \left( \frac{[g]^2 \times F_l}{V_{10}^3} \right)^{-0.33} \]

Frequency at Spectral Peak (f_p):

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1. What is Frequency at Spectral Peak?

Frequency at Spectral Peak (f_p) is the number of occurrences of a repeating event per unit of time at the spectral peak. It represents the frequency where the wave energy spectrum reaches its maximum value in oceanography and wave studies.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Frequency at Spectral Peak formula:

\[ f_p = 3.5 \times \left( \frac{[g]^2 \times F_l}{V_{10}^3} \right)^{-0.33} \]

Where:

\( f_p \) — Frequency at Spectral Peak (Hz)
\( [g] \) — Gravitational acceleration on Earth (9.80665 m/s²)
\( F_l \) — Fetch Length (m)
\( V_{10} \) — Wind Speed at Height of 10 m (m/s)

Explanation: The formula calculates the peak frequency based on gravitational acceleration, fetch length (unobstructed distance wind travels over water), and wind speed at 10 meters height.

3. Importance of Frequency at Spectral Peak Calculation

Details: Accurate frequency at spectral peak calculation is crucial for ocean wave forecasting, coastal engineering design, offshore operations, and understanding wave energy distribution in marine environments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fetch length in meters and wind speed at 10m height in m/s. All values must be valid positive numbers. The calculator uses gravitational acceleration constant of 9.80665 m/s².

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Fetch Length in wave studies?
A: Fetch Length is the unobstructed distance that wind can travel over water in a constant direction, which significantly influences wave development and characteristics.

Q2: Why is wind speed measured at 10m height?
A: Wind speed at 10m height is a standard reference height in meteorology and oceanography that provides consistent and comparable measurements across different locations and studies.

Q3: What are typical values for Frequency at Spectral Peak?
A: Typical values range from 0.05 to 0.5 Hz, depending on wind conditions, fetch length, and water depth. Lower frequencies indicate larger, more developed waves.

Q4: How does gravitational acceleration affect the calculation?
A: Gravitational acceleration is a fundamental constant that governs wave motion and energy distribution in the wave spectrum calculation.

Q5: What are the limitations of this formula?
A: The formula assumes fully developed sea conditions and may be less accurate for limited fetch situations, shallow water effects, or rapidly changing wind conditions.