A wave in which energy travels in one direction along the surface.

Study for the IB Marine Science Standard Level Exam. Prepare with interactive quizzes and in-depth explanations. Use our resources to excel in your marine science knowledge!

Multiple Choice

A wave in which energy travels in one direction along the surface.

Explanation:
Energy moving in one direction along the surface defines a traveling or progressive wave. As a progressive wave travels, the crest moves forward and carries energy with it across the sea surface, while the individual water particles mostly oscillate in place (often in circular orbits rather than being dragged along). The term orbital wave describes that circular particle motion, not the direction of energy transfer. Internal waves occur at the boundary between layers of different density inside the ocean, and a sea is not a wave type. So the best answer is the progressive wave because it specifically emphasizes forward energy transfer along the surface.

Energy moving in one direction along the surface defines a traveling or progressive wave. As a progressive wave travels, the crest moves forward and carries energy with it across the sea surface, while the individual water particles mostly oscillate in place (often in circular orbits rather than being dragged along). The term orbital wave describes that circular particle motion, not the direction of energy transfer. Internal waves occur at the boundary between layers of different density inside the ocean, and a sea is not a wave type. So the best answer is the progressive wave because it specifically emphasizes forward energy transfer along the surface.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy