Question

An ocean liner experiences broad waves, called swells, with a frequency of one every 20 seconds (0.05 Hz) and a wavelength of 440 feet. Assume the waves are moving due east. If the liner maintains a speed of 15 miles per hour, will it have a smoother trip going east or west? Why?

Answer 1

If the ship is moving in the direction of the waves (east), there will be a longer interval between swells and the resulting vertical accelerations will be less.