What are the slowest moving waves called?

Prepare for the Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Oceanography Test with detailed quizzes, flashcards, and explanations. Get ready to excel in your exam!

The slowest moving waves in the ocean are identified as capillary waves, which are small, rippling waves that form on the surface of water due to the effects of surface tension. These waves are typically generated by light winds and have wavelengths that are relatively short. They propagate at lower speeds compared to other types of ocean waves, such as progressive waves or tsunamis, which can travel much faster and over greater distances.

Tsunamis, for instance, are often mistakenly thought of as slow waves; however, they can travel at high speeds across the open ocean due to their long wavelengths. Seismic waves, which are generated by geological events like earthquakes, also travel rapidly compared to capillary waves. Therefore, in terms of their speed, capillary waves are indeed the slowest moving among the options given.

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