What phenomenon involves the slowing and bending of progressive waves in shallow water?

The phenomenon that involves the slowing and bending of progressive waves as they move into shallow water is known as wave refraction. This occurs because the speed of waves is influenced by the water depth; as waves approach shallower areas, their speed decreases, causing the wavefronts to bend.

In deep water, waves travel faster, and their energy propagates in a more uniform manner. However, once these waves enter shallower waters, the portion of the wave that reaches the shallower region first slows down, while the part still in deeper water continues at its original speed. This difference in speed leads to the bending of the wave direction toward the shore, a process that is pivotal in shaping coastlines and influencing sediment transport.

Understanding wave refraction is crucial for various applications in coastal management and marine navigation, as it affects both the behavior of waves and the impact they have on the shoreline.