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wave-current interactions

Wave-current interactions occur when ocean waves and ocean currents influence each other’s behavior. Currents are steady flows of water that move in specific directions, while waves are oscillations traveling across the water surface. When they meet, currents can alter wave speed, height, and direction, and vice versa. For example, a strong current can make waves steeper or faster, affecting navigation and coastal erosion. These interactions are important for understanding coastal dynamics, weather patterns, and maritime activities. Essentially, waves and currents are interconnected forces that shape the ocean’s surface and influence its movement.