We know that waves transmit energy. There are many types of waves: light, microwaves, x-rays, sound waves, and ocean waves are all examples of waves transferring energy. Ocean waves are a renewable energy source that uses the energy of the waves to generate electricity. Consider any ocean wave. What is the relationship between an ocean wave and the energy of that wave?

Question

A Wave energy increases with frequency and decreases with wavelength.
B Wave energy decreases as the wave moves closer to shore.
C Wave energy is directly proportional to the amplitude of the wave.
D The greater the wavelength, the more kinetic energy the wave has.

Answer 1

The correct relationship regarding ocean waves and their energy is:

C Wave energy is directly proportional to the amplitude of the wave.

In the context of ocean waves, the energy transported by the wave is proportional to the square of the amplitude. This means that as the height (amplitude) of the wave increases, the energy contained within that wave also increases significantly.