1. What is Mean Wave Period?

Mean Wave Period is the average time interval between consecutive wave crests passing a fixed point. It's a crucial parameter because it influences wave energy and coastal structures' stability.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( T' \) — Mean Wave Period (s)
• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (m)
• \( C_v \) — Wave Phase Velocity (m/s)

Explanation: The formula calculates the time period of a wave by dividing the wavelength by the wave phase velocity.

3. Importance of Wave Period Calculation

Details: Accurate wave period calculation is essential for coastal engineering, navigation safety, and understanding wave energy distribution in marine environments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter wavelength in meters and wave phase velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the relationship between wave period and wave energy?
A: Wave energy is proportional to the square of the wave period. Longer period waves typically carry more energy than shorter period waves.

Q2: How does wave period affect coastal structures?
A: Longer period waves can cause more significant erosion and structural damage as they have more time to transfer energy to coastal features.

Q3: What are typical wave period values in ocean environments?
A: Ocean waves typically have periods ranging from 1-30 seconds, with most wind waves having periods of 5-15 seconds and swells having longer periods.

Q4: How is wave phase velocity measured?
A: Wave phase velocity can be measured using wave buoys, radar systems, or calculated from wave frequency and water depth using dispersion relationships.

Q5: Does water depth affect wave period?
A: Wave period remains constant as waves move into shallower water, but wavelength and phase velocity decrease due to shoaling effects.