Wavelength Given Maximum Wave Height By Miche Criterion Calculator

Miche Criterion Formula:

\[ \lambda = \frac{H_{max}}{0.14 \times \tanh(k \times d)} \]

Wavelength of Coast (λ):

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1. What is the Miche Criterion?

The Miche Criterion is a formula used in coastal engineering to calculate the wavelength of waves based on maximum wave height, wave number, and water depth. It provides an important relationship for understanding wave behavior in coastal areas.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Miche Criterion formula:

\[ \lambda = \frac{H_{max}}{0.14 \times \tanh(k \times d)} \]

Where:

\( \lambda \) — Wavelength of Coast (m)
\( H_{max} \) — Maximum Wave Height (m)
\( k \) — Wave Number for Waves in Coast (rad/m)
\( d \) — Water Depth (m)
\( \tanh \) — Hyperbolic tangent function

Explanation: The formula accounts for the relationship between wave height, wave number, water depth, and resulting wavelength in coastal environments.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Accurate wavelength calculation is crucial for coastal engineering projects, shoreline protection design, and understanding wave energy distribution along coastlines.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter maximum wave height in meters, wave number in radians per meter, and water depth in meters. All values must be positive and valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the hyperbolic tangent function in this formula?
A: The tanh function accounts for the effect of water depth on wave characteristics, transitioning between deep water and shallow water wave behavior.

Q2: How does water depth affect wavelength?
A: In deeper water, waves travel faster and have longer wavelengths, while in shallower water, wave speed decreases and wavelengths shorten.

Q3: What are typical values for wave number in coastal areas?
A: Wave numbers typically range from 0.01 to 0.5 rad/m, depending on wave period and water depth conditions.

Q4: When is the Miche Criterion most applicable?
A: The criterion is particularly useful for intermediate water depths and provides good estimates for wave breaking conditions.

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The formula may be less accurate for extreme wave conditions or very shallow water where other physical processes dominate.