Wave Calculations

Check your Observations with the Theory

This page enables you to calculate a number of basic parameters to do with ocean waves and wave power

Wavelengths, Speeds and Power

While the periods of waves stays the same, their speeds and wavelengths vary with depth, especially in shallow water. Enter a wave period (between 0.5 and 100 seconds), the depth in metres (1 to 10000), the peak-to-trough height (00.1m to 50m) and finally the estimated percentage efficiency of power conversion (1 - 100). Then click the Update button and see what the theory says.

Input

Wave Period(s)
Ocean Depth(m)
Wave Height(m)
Efficiency(%)

Calculated Parameters

Wavelength(m)
Phase Velocity(m/s)
Group Velocity(m/s)
Gross Power(kW/m)
Net Power(kW/m)

Discussion

The Gross Power, above, is the time-averaged Potential-plus-Kinetic power contained in each meter of the wavefront. The Net Power is what you might generate from it. Efficiencies above 50% are unlikely, with 40% being perhaps more typical from a practical device. The equations used are derived from Wave Energy Coastal Waves Primer and Overview of Wave Energy Conversion with thanks.