2007-10-03 00:57:30 · 3 answers · asked by Chintu Philips Koshy 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
It seems to work. I suspect that the oil's viscosity dissipates wave energy resulting in less wave amplitude. From the general properties of damping one would expect the effect to be greater at the higher frequencies; i.e., the shorter waves.
A new study (ref.) suggests there may also be an effect of reducing wind speeds by discouraging the formation of spray.
2007-10-03 01:19:58 · answer #1 · answered by kirchwey 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Water has a relatively strong surface tension that affects the formation of waves and even drops of water. Wave formation catches more wind energy especially on long reaches. Waves from a distant hurricane often reached shore well in advance of the storm as a warning long ago. An oil film on the water reduces the effects of surface tension calming the seas. Old ships under sail used kites to drag an oily bag ahead calming the waves.
2007-10-03 08:33:46 · answer #2 · answered by Kes 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It surrounds the boat and forms a boarder, if there is enough of it then, it will force a large wave to brake at its boarder, keeping the waves at bay, protecting the boat from hammering of the waves.
2007-10-03 08:07:44 · answer #3 · answered by minootoo 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋