1. What is Stable Wave Height?

Stable Wave Height is the vertical distance between the trough (lowest point) and the following crest (highest point) of a wave. It represents the maximum wave height that can be sustained in a given water depth without breaking.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Stable Wave Height formula:

Where:

• \( H_{stable} \) — Stable Wave Height (m)
• \( d \) — Water Depth (m)

Explanation: This empirical formula establishes that the maximum stable wave height is approximately 40% of the water depth in the considered catchment area.

3. Importance of Stable Wave Height Calculation

Details: Calculating stable wave height is crucial for coastal engineering, marine navigation, and offshore structure design. It helps determine safe operating conditions for vessels and ensures the structural integrity of marine installations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter water depth in meters. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will compute the corresponding stable wave height.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What factors influence stable wave height?
A: While water depth is the primary factor, wind speed, duration, and fetch length also significantly affect wave height development.

Q2: Is this formula applicable to all water bodies?
A: This formula provides a general estimation and works best for relatively shallow water conditions. Deep water waves follow different dynamics.

Q3: How accurate is the 0.4 coefficient?
A: The 0.4 coefficient is an empirical value derived from observational studies and provides a reliable estimate for most practical applications.

Q4: When do waves become unstable?
A: Waves become unstable and break when their height-to-depth ratio exceeds approximately 0.78, though this can vary based on wave steepness and bottom slope.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for tsunami waves?
A: No, this formula is not suitable for tsunami waves, which have different generation mechanisms and propagation characteristics.