Two Opposing Groundswells

[Donweather]

Just wondering if anyone can offer some sound opinions (Longi you might have an opinion on this.....as well as other educated masses on here).

Does anyone know what happens if two long period groundswells, but from predominantly opposing directions meet. Say for instance out in the NE Tasman/SW Pacific area you had a 1.5m 15-16 second E/SE groundswell, which just happened to collide with a 1.0m 19-20 second SW groundswell what would happen to the two swells.

Now groundswells of these periods are predominantly travelling with all their energy beneath the surface of the ocean, hence they are less affected by windswells on the surface of the ocean.

But if two opposing groundswells collide, will they tend to cancel out each of their energies beneath the surface of the ocean, and hence essentially dissipate each of the swells. Or do they merely pass completely through each other, merrily continuing on their intended trajectory with little or no loss of energy??

[SAsurfa]

Without going into too much detail they will simply pass straight through each other, possibly loosing small amounts of energy.

Not much different to two different swells travelling in similar directions but with varying periods. One will travel faster than the other and over take it, no real loss in energy there though.

Have a play in the bath

Far more interesting and dramatic thing's happen when currents are involved

[Donweather]

Have a play in the bath

Thanks Craig, but I usually leave that up to my wife.