12
QuizMultiple Choice

Geologic Maps — Unit test

Question 12 • FHS 2016 TX-Earth and Space Science

Why do waves increase in height as they approach the shore?

Answer
A
The waves are forced into narrow inlets of land.
B
The water particles speed up as they approach land.
C
The water’s density decreases because it’s warmer near the shore.
D
The waves begin to interact with the ocean floor.

Explanation

As a wave moves into shallow water near shore, it begins to interact with the ocean floor. The bottom of the wave slows due to friction, while the upper part continues moving, causing the wave to become taller and eventually break. Therefore, the correct choice is “The waves begin to interact with the ocean floor.”

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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