1. What is the Tsunami Velocity Equation?

The tsunami velocity equation calculates the speed of a tsunami wave based on water depth. It demonstrates how tsunami waves travel faster in deeper water and slow down as they approach shorelines.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the tsunami velocity equation:

Where:

• \( v \) — Tsunami velocity (m/s)
• \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
• \( d \) — Water depth (m)

Explanation: The equation shows that tsunami speed is proportional to the square root of water depth, meaning tsunamis travel much faster in deep ocean waters than in shallow coastal areas.

3. Importance of Tsunami Velocity Calculation

Details: Understanding tsunami velocity is crucial for tsunami warning systems, coastal planning, and predicting arrival times of tsunami waves across ocean basins.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter water depth in meters. The value must be valid (depth > 0). The calculator will compute the tsunami velocity in meters per second.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does tsunami speed depend on water depth?
A: Tsunamis are shallow-water waves, meaning their speed is controlled by water depth rather than wave period or wavelength.

Q2: How fast can tsunamis travel in the open ocean?
A: In deep ocean waters (4000-5000m depth), tsunamis can travel at speeds of 600-800 km/h (370-500 mph).

Q3: Why do tsunamis slow down near coastlines?
A: As water depth decreases near shore, the wave speed reduces according to the square root relationship, causing the wave to shorten and amplify.

Q4: Is this equation accurate for all tsunami scenarios?
A: This provides a good approximation for initial tsunami speed, but actual propagation can be affected by seafloor topography, Coriolis effect, and other factors.

Q5: How is this information used in tsunami warning systems?
A: By knowing ocean depth profiles, scientists can predict how quickly a tsunami generated in one location will reach vulnerable coastal areas.