University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 15 - Mechanical Waves - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 496: Q15.6

Answer

See explanation.

Work Step by Step

The waves slow down as they approach the shore because the water becomes shallower. The faster waves coming up from behind, much like fast-moving cars coming up upon slower cars at a red light, crash into the slow waves, causing them to “break”.
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