Chapter 14, Problem 94GP

Speed of a Tsunami Tsunamis can have wavelengths between 100 and 400 km. Since this is much greater than the average depth of the oceans (about 4.3 km), the ocean can be considered as shallow water for these waves. Using the speed of waves in shallow water of depth d given in Problem 8, find the typical speed for a tsunami. (Note: In the open ocean, tsunamis generally have an amplitude of less than a meter, allowing them to pass ships unnoticed. As they approach shore, however, the water depth decreases and the waves slow down. This can result in an increase of amplitude to as much as 37 m or more.)