Question

select the correct answer.
tsunami waves are caused by earthquakes in the ocean floor. as the waves approach the shore, they usually grow in height. when this occurs, which aspect of the wave is changing?
a. amplitude
b. direction
c. frequency
d. speed
e. wavelength

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Amplitude is the maximum displacement (height for water waves) from the rest position. When tsunami waves grow in height, their amplitude increases.
• Option B: Direction isn’t changing here (waves move toward shore, direction is consistent).
• Option C: Frequency (waves per unit time) is determined by the source (earthquake), so it doesn’t change as waves approach shore.
• Option D: Speed of tsunami waves decreases near shore, but the question focuses on “growing in height,” not speed.
• Option E: Wavelength (distance between waves) shortens near shore, but this isn’t related to “height.”

Answer:

A. amplitude