fata. 1  definite singular nominative form of fatÄ. 2  definite singular accusative form of fatÄ.
1. Once a wave has been generated its speed may change, but its period does not as this characteristic is determined by the generating force. 2. Deep-water waves (waves of oscillation) a. Deep-water waves occur where the water is deeper than 1/2 the wavelength of the waves. b. In deep water the velocity of a wave is a function of wavelength. c. Waves are created in storm centers or by the steady winds of the westerlies and trades.
The speed at which the waves carry this energy is related to the wave speed, which is the wave length divided by the wave period (since the wave has to travel one wave length every wave period). Shoaling and refraction of waves occur when the waves are in shallow water. If the water depth is less than half the wave length, then the wave is considered to be in shallow water. In the deep ocean, tsunamis (earthquake-generated waves) are considered shallow water waves (1).