1. What is Wave Phase Velocity?

Wave Phase Velocity is the speed at which a wave crest or trough moves through the water. It is defined as the distance a wave crest travels per unit of time.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wave phase velocity formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The equation calculates the speed of wave propagation by dividing the wavelength by the mean wave period.

3. Importance of Wave Phase Velocity Calculation

Details: Wave phase velocity is crucial for understanding wave behavior, designing coastal structures, predicting wave energy propagation, and analyzing wave interactions with marine environments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter wavelength in meters, mean wave period in seconds. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between phase velocity and group velocity?
A: Phase velocity is the speed of individual wave crests, while group velocity is the speed at which wave energy propagates. In deep water, they can differ significantly.

Q2: How does water depth affect wave phase velocity?
A: In shallow water, wave phase velocity decreases with decreasing depth, following the relationship \( C_v = \sqrt{g \cdot d} \), where g is gravity and d is water depth.

Q3: What are typical values for wave phase velocity?
A: Typical values range from a few m/s for short-period waves to over 20 m/s for long-period ocean swells. The maximum phase velocity in deep water is limited by the relationship \( C_v = \sqrt{g \cdot \lambda / (2\pi)} \).

Q4: How is wave phase velocity measured in practice?
A: It can be measured using wave buoys, radar systems, or by analyzing the time difference between wave crests passing two fixed points a known distance apart.

Q5: Why is wave phase velocity important for coastal engineering?
A: Understanding wave phase velocity helps engineers design breakwaters, seawalls, and other coastal structures that can withstand wave forces and predict shoreline changes.