Wave Height For Fetch Less Than 32 Kilometers Calculator

Wave Height Formula:

\[ h_w = (0.032 \times \sqrt{V \times F} + 0.763) - (0.271 \times F^{3/4}) \]

Height of Water from Top Crest to Bottom of Trough:

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1. What is the Wave Height Formula?

The wave height formula calculates the height of water from top crest to bottom of trough for fetch distances less than 32 kilometers. This formula is particularly useful in coastal engineering and dam design to estimate wave characteristics based on wind velocity and water expanse length.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wave height formula:

\[ h_w = (0.032 \times \sqrt{V \times F} + 0.763) - (0.271 \times F^{3/4}) \]

Where:

\( h_w \) — Height of water from top crest to bottom of trough (km)
\( V \) — Wind velocity of wave pressure (km/h)
\( F \) — Straight length of water expense (km)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the relationship between wind velocity, water expanse length, and resulting wave height, with specific coefficients derived from empirical data.

3. Importance of Wave Height Calculation

Details: Accurate wave height estimation is crucial for coastal structure design, flood prediction, dam safety assessment, and maritime operations planning.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter wind velocity in km/h and straight length of water expense in km. Both values must be positive numbers. The formula is specifically designed for fetch distances less than 32 kilometers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is fetch in wave height calculation?
A: Fetch refers to the straight length of water over which the wind blows, which directly influences wave formation and height.

Q2: Why is this formula limited to fetch less than 32 km?
A: The formula uses specific coefficients optimized for shorter fetch distances. Different formulas may be needed for larger water bodies.

Q3: How accurate is this wave height formula?
A: The formula provides reasonable estimates for engineering purposes but may have variations due to local topography and wind patterns.

Q4: What factors can affect wave height besides wind velocity and fetch?
A: Water depth, wind duration, bottom topography, and current patterns can all influence actual wave height.

Q5: Can this formula be used for ocean waves?
A: This specific formula is designed for smaller water bodies with limited fetch. Ocean waves typically require different calculation methods.