1. What is Wave Period?

Wave Period is the time it takes for one complete wave cycle to pass a fixed point. It affects wave energy, with longer periods indicating more energy and potential for erosion.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wave period formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Wave Period (seconds)
• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (meters)
• \( V_{gshallow} \) — Group Velocity for Shallow Water (m/s)

Explanation: This formula calculates the wave period by dividing the wavelength by the group velocity in shallow water conditions.

3. Importance of Wave Period Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter wavelength in meters and group velocity for shallow water in m/s. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between wave period and wave frequency?
A: Wave period is the time for one complete wave cycle, while wave frequency is the number of wave cycles per unit time. They are reciprocals of each other.

Q2: How does water depth affect wave period?
A: Wave period remains constant as waves move into shallower water, but wavelength and wave speed decrease due to shoaling effects.

Q3: What are typical wave period values in coastal areas?
A: Typical wave periods range from 3-15 seconds in coastal areas, with longer periods associated with swell waves and shorter periods with wind waves.

Q4: Why is group velocity used instead of phase velocity?
A: Group velocity represents the speed at which wave energy propagates, which is more relevant for practical applications like wave energy transport.

Q5: How accurate is this formula for very shallow water?
A: This formula provides good accuracy for shallow water conditions where water depth is less than half the wavelength.