Home
Back
Formula Used:
| From: | To: |
The Michell wave steepness limit provides a relationship between wave height and wavelength, where the maximum wave steepness (H/λ) is limited to 0.142. This formula calculates wavelength from wave height based on this maximum steepness constraint.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the wavelength corresponding to the maximum wave steepness limit of 0.142 as defined by Michell for stable wave conditions.
Details: Understanding the relationship between wave height and wavelength is crucial for coastal engineering, naval architecture, and oceanography. The maximum wave steepness limit helps predict wave stability and breaking conditions.
Tips: Enter wave height in meters. The value must be positive and greater than zero to calculate the corresponding wavelength.
Q1: What is wave steepness?
A: Wave steepness is the ratio of wave height to wavelength (H/λ), which indicates how steep a wave is relative to its length.
Q2: Why is 0.142 the maximum wave steepness limit?
A: This value represents the theoretical maximum steepness for stable waves before they become unstable and break, as established by Michell's research.
Q3: What are typical wavelength values in ocean waves?
A: Ocean wavelengths typically range from a few meters for wind waves to hundreds of meters for swell waves, with corresponding wave heights varying accordingly.
Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula provides a theoretical maximum based on ideal conditions. Actual wave behavior may vary due to factors like water depth, wind conditions, and wave interactions.
Q5: How is this used in practical applications?
A: This calculation is used in coastal engineering for breakwater design, in naval architecture for ship stability analysis, and in oceanography for wave forecasting and analysis.