What is the typical ratio of the wavelength to its height for ocean waves?

The typical ratio of the wavelength to height for ocean waves is commonly understood to fall within the range of 17 to 33. This ratio reflects the relationship between two fundamental characteristics of waves: their wavelength, which is the distance between consecutive wave crests, and their height, also known as wave amplitude, which measures how high the wave rises above the mean sea level.

In oceanographic studies, most wind-generated waves have this ratio, aiding in the categorization and prediction of wave behavior. The ratio is significant because it gives insight into the energy and dynamics of the waves. Higher ratios can indicate more powerful waves which may have implications for coastal engineering and navigation.

In contrast, the other options either suggest ratios that are too low or excessively high for typical ocean waves, which do not align with established empirical data on wave characteristics. Therefore, the selected option reflects established principles in marine engineering and oceanography, providing a reliable framework for understanding ocean wave dynamics.