Total Wave Energy In One Wavelength Per Unit Crest Width Calculator

Total Wave Energy Formula:

\[ TE = \frac{\rho \cdot g \cdot H^2 \cdot \lambda}{8} \]

Total Energy of Wave per Width (TE):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Total Wave Energy per Unit Crest Width?

Total Wave Energy per Unit Crest Width represents the sum of kinetic and potential energy contained in one wavelength of a wave per unit width of the wave crest. It is a fundamental concept in wave mechanics and ocean engineering.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wave energy formula:

\[ TE = \frac{\rho \cdot g \cdot H^2 \cdot \lambda}{8} \]

Where:

\( TE \) — Total energy of wave per width (J/m)
\( \rho \) — Density of fluid (kg/m³)
\( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s²)
\( H \) — Wave height (m)
\( \lambda \) — Wavelength (m)

Explanation: The formula calculates the total energy contained in one wavelength of a wave, considering both the kinetic energy of water particle motion and the potential energy due to wave elevation.

3. Importance of Wave Energy Calculation

Details: Accurate wave energy calculation is crucial for coastal engineering, offshore structure design, wave energy conversion systems, and understanding wave dynamics in oceanography.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fluid density in kg/m³, wave height in meters, and wavelength in meters. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical density value for seawater?
A: Seawater density is typically around 1025 kg/m³, but it can vary with temperature and salinity.

Q2: How does wave energy relate to wave power?
A: Wave power is the rate at which wave energy is transmitted in the direction of wave propagation, typically measured in watts per meter of wave crest.

Q3: What factors affect wave energy the most?
A: Wave energy is most sensitive to wave height, as it appears squared in the formula, making it the dominant factor.

Q4: Can this formula be used for all types of waves?
A: This formula is primarily valid for linear (Airy) waves in deep water conditions. Modifications may be needed for shallow water waves or nonlinear waves.

Q5: How is wave energy distributed between kinetic and potential energy?
A: For linear waves, the total energy is equally divided between kinetic and potential energy, each contributing half of the total energy.