1. What is the Deepwater Surf Similarity Parameter?

The Deepwater Surf Similarity Parameter compares the wave surface slope to the bed slope in the surf zone and represents important features of the hydrodynamics of the surf zone. It is a dimensionless parameter used in coastal engineering to characterize wave breaking behavior.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Deepwater Surf Similarity Parameter equation:

Where:

• \( \varepsilon_0 \) — Deepwater Surf Similarity Parameter (dimensionless)
• \( R_{1/3} \) — Average of the Highest 1/3 of the Runups (meters)
• \( H_d \) — Deepwater Wave Height (meters)
• 1.38 and 0.7 — Empirical constants

Explanation: This formula relates the average of the highest wave runups to the deepwater wave height through an empirical relationship that characterizes surf zone hydrodynamics.

3. Importance of Surf Similarity Parameter

Details: The surf similarity parameter is crucial for predicting wave breaking types, designing coastal structures, and understanding sediment transport processes in the surf zone. It helps classify different wave breaking regimes and their associated hydrodynamic characteristics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the average of the highest 1/3 of runups and deepwater wave height in meters. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does the surf similarity parameter indicate?
A: It indicates the type of wave breaking that will occur - spilling, plunging, or surging breakers, with higher values typically associated with more surging behavior.

Q2: What are typical values for the surf similarity parameter?
A: Values typically range from 0.1 to 10, with lower values indicating spilling breakers and higher values indicating surging breakers.

Q3: How is the average of highest 1/3 runups measured?
A: This is typically measured through field observations or wave tank experiments by recording the maximum shoreline elevations reached by waves and averaging the highest third of these measurements.

Q4: What is deepwater wave height?
A: Deepwater wave height refers to wave height measurements taken in water deep enough that the bottom doesn't affect wave characteristics (typically water depth > 1/2 wavelength).

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: This empirical relationship may have limitations in extreme wave conditions, complex bathymetry, or for waves with significant nonlinear characteristics.