WavesQuestions
Question 1
The Arctic does not experience the very long period swell seen in other oceans. Which of the following factors contribute to this? (Choose all that apply.)
The correct answers are a), Large areas with shallow bathymetry and b), Permanent sea ice around the North Pole.
While Arctic cyclone are strong enough and long-lived enough to generate large waves, shallow bathymetry in large areas north of Eurasia prevents the growth of long wave lengths due to bottom friction. Also, permanent sea ice blocks long propagation paths, required to develop long-period swell. While the Coriolis force increases at high latitudes, it isn't a factor in developing long-period swell.
Question 2
[True/False] When waves enter the marginal ice zone, longer period waves decay faster than shorter period ones.
The correct answer is False.
Shorter period waves decay faster than longer period waves. The rate of decay is exponential and depends on the frequency of the waves and the size and concentration of ice floes.