What term describes the subtraction of wave energy as waves meet, resulting in smaller waves?

The correct term for the subtraction of wave energy that occurs when waves meet and result in smaller waves is destructive interference. This phenomenon happens when two or more waves overlap and their crests and troughs align in such a way that they partially or completely cancel each other out. When this occurs, the amplitude of the resulting wave is reduced, which leads to smaller waves being observed.

In contrast, constructive interference occurs when waves meet in alignment, enhancing their amplitude and creating larger waves. Wave steepness refers to the ratio of wave height to wavelength, and fetch is the distance over which wind blows across the water surface to generate waves. Understanding these concepts is essential to grasp the dynamics of wave behavior in oceanography.