The Physics of Tsunamis
The mechanisms of tsunami generation and propagation
What is a tsunami?
A tsunami (pronounced tsoo-nah-mee) is a wave train, or series of waves, generated in a body of water by an impulsive disturbance that vertically displaces the water column.
Earthquakes, landslides, volcanic eruptions, explosions, and even the impact of cosmic bodies, such as meteorites, can generate tsunamis. Tsunamis can savagely attack coastlines, causing devastating property damage and loss of life.
Would you like to learn more about tsunamis?
Explore the following sections:
