1. What is Wave Orbital Velocity?

Wave orbital velocity refers to the velocity of water particles in their circular orbits as a wave passes through. It's a fundamental parameter in coastal engineering and oceanography.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wave orbital velocity equation:

Where:

• \( u \) — Wave orbital velocity (m/s)
• \( H \) — Wave height (m)
• \( T \) — Wave period (s)
• \( k \) — Wave number (1/m)
• \( z \) — Depth below water surface (m)
• \( d \) — Water depth (m)

Explanation: The equation describes the maximum horizontal velocity of water particles at a given depth due to wave motion.

3. Importance of Wave Orbital Velocity

Details: Wave orbital velocity is crucial for understanding sediment transport, coastal erosion, and the design of offshore structures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all parameters in consistent units. Wave number can be calculated from wavelength (L) as k = 2π/L.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between orbital velocity and wave celerity?
A: Orbital velocity refers to water particle motion, while wave celerity is the speed at which the wave form propagates.

Q2: How does orbital velocity vary with depth?
A: Orbital velocity decreases exponentially with depth below the water surface.

Q3: What's the significance of the cosh/sinh terms?
A: These hyperbolic functions account for the depth-dependent variation in orbital motion.

Q4: Is this equation valid for all wave types?
A: This applies to linear (Airy) wave theory. Nonlinear waves may require more complex formulations.

Q5: How does orbital velocity affect sediment transport?
A: Higher orbital velocities can mobilize larger sediment particles and increase transport rates.