I'm trying to understand the concept of fetch in the context of waves. Could someone explain what fetch means in relation to waves and how it affects their characteristics?
The height of waves in the ocean is determined by several key factors, with wind speed playing a pivotal role. When the wind blows slowly, it lacks the power to generate significant waves, resulting in only small ripples on the water's surface.
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BitcoinBaronessSat Oct 19 2024
Another crucial aspect influencing wave height is the duration of the wind. Even if the wind speed is moderate, a brief gust will not produce large waves. It takes a sustained period of wind to build up momentum and create taller waves.
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ElenaSat Oct 19 2024
Fetch, or the distance over which the wind blows in a single direction, is also significant in determining wave height. The longer the fetch, the more time the wind has to gather energy and transfer it to the water, leading to the formation of larger waves.
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DigitalCoinDreamerFri Oct 18 2024
In contrast, if the fetch is short, such as in a narrow channel or near a coastline, the waves will remain relatively small as the wind does not have sufficient distance to build up its energy.
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CryptoEnthusiastFri Oct 18 2024
The interplay between wind speed, duration, and fetch determines the overall wave size, making each wave unique based on these conditions. Understanding these factors is crucial for sailors, surfers, and anyone navigating NEAR coastal areas.