1. What is the Zuider Zee Formula?

The Zuider Zee Formula calculates the fetch length given setup above pool level, which is the horizontal distance over which wave-generating winds blow. This formula is particularly useful in coastal engineering and hydrology for predicting wave characteristics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Zuider Zee formula:

Where:

• \( F \) — Fetch Length (m)
• \( h_a \) — Height of Wave (m)
• \( V_w \) — Wind Velocity (m/s)
• \( \theta \) — Theta (radians)
• \( d \) — Water Depth (m)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the relationship between wave height, wind velocity, wind direction angle, and water depth to determine the fetch length.

3. Importance of Fetch Length Calculation

Details: Accurate fetch length calculation is crucial for predicting wave characteristics, designing coastal structures, and understanding sediment transport in water bodies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter wave height in meters, wind velocity in m/s, theta in radians, and water depth in meters. All values must be positive and valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is fetch length in coastal engineering?
A: Fetch length is the horizontal distance over which wind blows across a water surface, generating waves.

Q2: Why is cosine of theta used in the formula?
A: The cosine function accounts for the angle between wind direction and the fetch direction, reducing the effective wind component.

Q3: What are typical values for fetch length?
A: Fetch length can vary from a few meters in small ponds to hundreds of kilometers in large oceans and lakes.

Q4: How does water depth affect fetch length?
A: Shallower water depths generally result in shorter fetch lengths for the same wave height due to bottom friction effects.

Q5: When is this formula most applicable?
A: The Zuider Zee formula is particularly useful for enclosed or semi-enclosed water bodies like lakes, reservoirs, and bays.