Coast Guard Exams
Question 1920Navigation General70% to pass

When a current flows in the opposite direction to the waves, the wave _______________.

AI Explanation
The correct answer is C) height is increased. When a current flows in the opposite direction to the waves, it causes the wave height to increase. This is because the opposing current creates a steeper wave profile, resulting in higher wave peaks and lower wave troughs. The wave velocity and length, however, remain unchanged. The other options are incorrect because: A) The wave length is not affected by the opposing current. B) The wave velocity decreases, not increases, when the current opposes the wave direction. D) The wave length is not increased by the opposing current.

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