Wave energy. Computer simulation showing the energy flow of ocean waves moving through current eddies. The simulation shows the result of 500,000 ray
Wave energy. Computer simulation showing the energy flow of ocean waves moving through current eddies. The simulation shows the result of 500,000 ray trajectories travelling at three different speeds through a region with current eddies. The eddies act as an optic lens and cause refraction of the waves resulting in areas of concentrated energy. This is visible as a pattern of twisting and branching known as caustics. It is believed that caustics resulting from strong ocean eddies interacting with wave action may be the cause of giant ocean waves known as freak, or rogue waves. Such waves have been reported to reach as high as 30 metres and have been blamed for the disappearance of some ships. Simulation created by Eric Heller, Professor of Physics at Harvard University, Massachusetts, USA.
Size: 6997px × 3499px
Photo credit: © ERIC HELLER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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