How do you measure a ocean wave?

Answer 1

Now with the use of laser beam technology we can measure the height of the ocean Waves. To find the speed of the waves during Tsunami the Instrument called buoys are converting the velocity of the wave in to pressure and measure the pressure and transmit the data to satellite again it reaches the ground station.( Kinetic energy = 1/2 m v ^2) As we have two eyes to see the three D effect of the articles the satellite uses 2 cameras that focuses to the place where the height of any thing to be measured .By focusing the area of overlapping place alone the height can be measured . That is why we are unable to warn the Tsunami that exact place to be focused and should be in over lapping area of the camera. The huge height of the tsunami wave at the epicenter will lost for few minutes only. After that in will be converted in to long but lessor height waves and will start travel at a greater speed of about 500 to 1500 kilo meter per hour to all the direction. It will again rises it height only when it is obstructed by the shore.
By A.Ganapathy researcher and designer of early warning system for earthquakes and Tsunami.

Answer 2

To add to Clark's list: you could also measure the speed of the wave, and the wavelength (distance between wave crests).

The question is rather vague. Can you be more specific about what it is about the wave that you are interested in measuring (or knowing about how to measure)?

Answer 3

The wavelength is the distance from crest to crest and can vary depending on the strength of the wind and distance (reach) as well as the depth of the water. The link illustrates how waves seem to move ahead while actually remaining pretty much in place. If you are floating in the water, the waves leave you behind as they move on by.

Answer 4

Waves in the water are usually measured by height (amplitude), time between waves (period), and maybe direction.