Science NetLinks, Science Discovery: Science of a Tsunami

Science of a Tsunami

Tsunamis are a set of ocean waves usually caused by the movement of the earth's plates deep under the ocean. These waves (sometimes incorrectly called tidal waves) can range in size from small and hardly noticeable to large waves up to 100 feet tall. Scientists are working to learn as much as they can about tsunamis so that steps can be taken to keep coastal areas and residents as safe as possible.

Studying the science of tsunamis will hopefully provide better understanding and a better warning system.

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Online Resources

6 Ways to Launch a Tsunami
Tsunamis are a possibility all over the globe, although the likelihood of one affecting your neighborhood depends on how the tsunami developed, as this Discovery Channel slideshow demonstrates.

Tsunami Barriers audio icon
The devastating tsunamis in Asia showed Mother Nature at her most fierce. But according to one scientist, human activities may have contributed to the waves' awesome power. Learn more in this Science Update podcast.

The Tsunami Story
Learn more about tsunamis and tsunami detection from this National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) article and its animations.